Immunostimulatory oligonucleotides

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to immunostimulatory oligonucleotides and methods of using immunostimulatory oligonucleotides to induce an antigen-specific immune response. The invention further relates to a vaccine that comprises an immunostimulatory oligonucleotide and an antigen, and comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The immunostimulatory oligonucleotides of the invention, in some embodiments, include one or more modified linkage(s).

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation Application of U.S. application Ser.No. 12/632,911, filed Dec. 8, 2009, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/181,799, filed May 28, 2009, andU.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/121,022, filed Dec. 9, 2008,all of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING

This application is being filed electronically via EFS-Web and includesan electronically submitted sequence listing in .txt format. The .txtfile contains a sequence listing entitled“PC33856B_Sequence_Listing_ST25_.txt” created on Jun. 17, 2013 andhaving a size of 1.34 KB. The sequence listing contained in this .txtfile is part of the specification and is herein incorporated byreference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to immunostimulatory oligonucleotides and methodsof using immunostimulatory oligonucleotides to induce anantigen-specific immune response.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Bacterial DNA has immune stimulatory effects to activate B cells andnatural killer cells, but vertebrate DNA does not (Tokunaga, T., et al.,1988. Jpn. J. Cancer Res. 79:682-686; Tokunaga, T., et al., 1984, JNCI72:955-962; Messina, J. P., et al., 1991, J. Immunol. 147:1759-1764; andreviewed in Krieg, 1998, In: Applied Oligonucleotide Technology, C. A.Stein and A. M. Krieg, (Eds.), John Wiley and Sons, Inc., New York,N.Y., pp. 431-448). It is now understood that these immune stimulatoryeffects of bacterial DNA are a result of the presence of unmethylatedCpG dinucleotides in particular base contexts (CpG motifs), which arecommon in bacterial DNA, but methylated and underrepresented invertebrate DNA (Krieg et al, 1995 Nature 374:546-549; Krieg, 1999Biochim. Biophys. Acta 1489:107-116). The immune stimulatory effects ofbacterial DNA can be mimicked with synthetic oligodeoxynucleotides (ODN)containing these CpG motifs. Such CpG ODN have highly stimulatoryeffects on human and murine leukocytes, inducing B cell proliferation;cytokine and immunoglobulin secretion; natural killer (NK) cell lyticactivity and IFN-.gamma. secretion; and activation of dendritic cells(DCs) and other antigen presenting cells to express costimulatorymolecules and secrete cytokines, especially the Th1-like cytokines thatare important in promoting the development of Th1-like T cell responses.These immune stimulatory effects of native phosphodiester backbone CpGODN are highly CpG specific in that the effects are dramatically reducedif the CpG motif is methylated, changed to a GpC, or otherwiseeliminated or altered (Krieg et al, 1995 Nature 374:546-549; Hartmann etal, 1999 Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 96:9305-10).

It has been previously reported that immunostimulatory activity of CpGoligonucleotides is dependent on the number of CpG motifs, the sequencesflanking the CG dinucleotide, the location of the CpG motif(s) and thespacing between the CpG motifs (Ballas et al., 1996, J. Immunol. 157(5):1840-5; Hartmann et al., 2000, J. Immunol., 164(3): 1617-24; Klinman etal., 2003, Clin. Exp. Immunol., 133(2): 227-32). An immunostimulatoryoligonucleotide having the 3′ CpG motif removed is disclosed herein thatsurprisingly retains its immunostimulatory activity. A vaccinecomprising the immunostimulatory oligonucleotide and an antigen, andmethods of using such vaccine are further disclosed.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In aspects of the invention, an immunostimulatory oligonucleotidecomprising the nucleotide sequence 5′ TCGTCGTTTTTCGGTGCTTTT 3′ (SEQ IDNO:1) is provided. In some embodiments, the immunostimulatoryoligonucleotide comprises one or more modified linkages. In certainembodiments, the immunostimulatory oligonucleotide comprises one or morephosphorothioate linkages. In certain embodiments, all internucleotidelinkages of the oligonucleotide are phosphorothioate linkages. In someembodiments, the immunostimulatory oligonucleotide comprises at leastone lipophilic substituted nucleotide analog and a pyrimidine-purinedinucleotide.

In aspects of the invention, a vaccine comprising an antigen and animmunostimulatory oligonucleotide comprising the nucleotide sequence SEQID NO:1, further comprising a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier isprovided. In some embodiments, the immunostimulatory oligonucleotide isin an effective amount to induce an antigen-specific immune response. Inother embodiments, the antigen-specific immune response induced is a Th1immune response. In some embodiments, the antigen is a microbialantigen, a self antigen or an addictive substance. In other embodiments,the bacterial antigen is associated with Staphylococcus aureus, or thebacterial antigen is associated with a bacterium that causes dentalcaries. In further embodiments, the bacterium is Streptococcus mutans,Streptococcus sobrinus, Streptococcus sanguis, Lactobacillusacidophilis, or Actinomyces viscosus. In other embodiments, thebacterial antigen is associated with a bacterium that causes periodontaldisease. In further embodiments, the bacterium is Porphyromonasgingivalis or Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans. In some embodiments,the viral antigen is associated with Respiratory Syncytial virus (RSV),Herpes Simplex virus 1, Herpes Simplex virus 2, Human ImmunodeficiencyVirus-1 (HIV-1) or HIV-2. In other embodiments, the parasitic antigen isassociated with a parasite that causes malaria. In some embodiments, theself antigen is a tumor antigen, an antigen associated with Alzheimer'sDisease, an antigen against a human antibody, or an antigen that isexpressed from human endogenous retroviral elements. In furtherembodiments, the tumor antigen is HER2, MAGE, NY-ESO, PSA, CEA or avariant form of EGFR. In other embodiments, wherein the antigen isassociated with Alzheimer's Disease, the antigen is tau or β-amyloid. Insome embodiments, the antigen is IgE. In some embodiments, the antigenis a nicotine hapten conjugated to a carrier. In further embodiments,the carrier to which the nicotine hapten is conjugated is diphtheriatoxin (DT). In other embodiments, the antigen is a peptide, arecombinant protein, a purified protein, whole killed pathogen, liveattenuated virus or viral vector, live attenuated bacteria or abacterial vector, a polysaccharide, a hapten, or encoded by plasmid DNA.

In some embodiments, the antigen is conjugated to a carrier. In furtherembodiments, the carrier is diphtheria toxin (DT). In other embodiments,the carrier is a virus-like particle. In further embodiments, thevirus-like particle is RNA phage Q-β, hepatitis B surface antigen(HBsAg), or hepatitis B core antigen (HBcAg). In some embodiments, thevaccine further comprises one or more adjuvants. In further embodiments,the adjuvant is an agonist for a Toll-like receptor (TLR) that is notTLR 9. In other embodiments, the agonist is for TLR 3. In furtherembodiments, the TLR 3 agonist is stabilized polyl:C. In someembodiments, the agonist is for TLR 4. In further embodiments, the TLR 4agonist is a derivative of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). In even furtherembodiments, the LPS derivative is MPL or GLA. In other embodiments, theagonist is for TLR 5. In further embodiments, the TLR 5 agonist isflagellin. In some embodiments, the agonist is for TLR 7 or 8. Infurther embodiments, the TLR 7 or 8 agonist is a small molecule of theimidazoquinoline family. In other embodiments, the adjuvant is analuminum salt. In further embodiments, the aluminum salt is aluminumhydroxide. In some embodiments, the adjuvant is an immune stimulatorycomplex (ISCOM). In other embodiments, the adjuvant is an oil-in-wateror water-in-oil emulsion. In some embodiments, the adjuvant is aliposome. In other embodiments, the adjuvant is a delivery system. Infurther embodiments, the delivery system is a nanoparticle or amicroparticle.

In some embodiments, the immunostimulatory oligonucleotide comprises oneor more modified linkages. In further embodiments, the immunostimulatoryoligonucleotide comprises one or more phosphorothioate linkages. Incertain embodiments, all internucleotide linkages of the oligonucleotideare phosphorothioate linkages. In other embodiments, theimmunostimulatory oligonucleotide comprises at least one lipophilicsubstituted nucleotide analog and a pyrimidine-purine dinucleotide. Insome embodiments, the vaccine is formulated for administration. Infurther embodiments, the vaccine is formulated for administration via aparenteral route, wherein the parental route is intramuscular,subcutaneous, intradermal, intravenous or intraperitoneal. In stillfurther embodiments, the vaccine is formulated for administration via atopical route, wherein the topical route is the skin, transdermal or amucosal surface. In further embodiments, the mucosal route is oral,intranasal, intravaginal, intrarectal, intra-buccal or intraocular.

In some aspects of the invention, a method of inducing anantigen-specific immune response in a subject in need thereof comprisesadministering to a subject an antigen and an immunostimulatoryoligonucleotide comprising nucleotide sequence SEQ ID NO:1 in aneffective amount to induce an antigen-specific immune response in saidsubject. In some embodiments, the antigen is a microbial antigen, a selfantigen or an addictive substance. In further embodiments, the microbialantigen is a bacterial antigen, a viral antigen or a parasitic antigen.In other embodiments, the bacterial antigen is associated withStaphylococcus aureus, or the bacterial antigen is associated with abacterium that causes dental caries. In further embodiments, thebacterium is Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sobrinus, Streptococcussanguis, Lactobacillus acidophilis, or Actinomyces viscosus. In otherembodiments, the bacterial antigen is associated with a bacterium thatcauses periodontal disease. In further embodiments, the bacterium isPorphyromonas gingivalis or Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans. Insome embodiments, the viral antigen is associated with RespiratorySyncytial virus (RSV), Herpes Simplex virus 1, Herpes Simplex virus 2,Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 (HIV-1) or HIV-2. In other embodiments,the parasitic antigen is associated with a parasite that causes malaria.In some embodiments, the self antigen is a tumor antigen, an antigenassociated with Alzheimer's Disease, an antigen against a humanantibody, or an antigen that is expressed from human endogenousretroviral elements. In further embodiments, the tumor antigen is HER2,MAGE, NY-ESO, PSA, CEA or a variant form of EGFR. In other embodiments,wherein the antigen is associated with Alzheimer's Disease, the antigenis tau or β-amyloid. In some embodiments, the antigen is IgE. In someembodiments, the antigen is a nicotine hapten conjugated to a carrier.In further embodiments, the carrier to which the nicotine hapten isconjugated is diphtheria toxin (DT). In other embodiments, the antigenis a peptide, a recombinant protein, a purified protein, whole killedpathogen, live attenuated virus or viral vector, live attenuatedbacteria or a bacterial vector, a polysaccharide, a hapten, or encodedby plasmid DNA.

In some embodiments, the antigen is conjugated to a carrier. In furtherembodiments, the carrier is diphtheria toxin (DT). In other embodiments,carrier is a virus-like particle. In further embodiments, the virus-likeparticle is RNA phage Q-β, hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), orhepatitis B core antigen (HBcAg). In some embodiments, the vaccinefurther comprises one or more adjuvants. In further embodiments, theadjuvant is an agonist for a Toll-like receptor (TLR) that is not TLR 9.In other embodiments, the agonist is for TLR 3. In further embodiments,the TLR 3 agonist is stabilized polyl:C. In some embodiments, theagonist is for TLR 4. In further embodiments, the TLR 4 agonist is aderivative of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). In even further embodiments, theLPS derivative is MPL or GLA. In other embodiments, the agonist is forTLR 5. In further embodiments, the TLR 5 agonist is flagellin. In someembodiments, the agonist is for TLR 7 or 8. In further embodiments, theTLR 7 or 8 agonist is a small molecule of the imidazoquinoline family.In other embodiments, the adjuvant is an aluminum salt. In furtherembodiments, the aluminum salt is aluminum hydroxide. In someembodiments, the adjuvant is an immune stimulatory complex (ISCOM). Inother embodiments, the adjuvant is an oil-in-water or water-in-oilemulsion. In some embodiments, the adjuvant is a liposome. In otherembodiments, the adjuvant is a delivery system. In further embodiments,the delivery system is a nanoparticle or a microparticle.

In some embodiments, the immunostimulatory oligonucleotide comprises oneor more modified linkages. In further embodiments, the immunostimulatoryoligonucleotide comprises one or more phosphorothioate linkages. Incertain embodiments, all internucleotide linkages of the oligonucleotideare phosphorothioate linkages. In other embodiments, theimmunostimulatory oligonucleotide comprises at least one lipophilicsubstituted nucleotide analog and a pyrimidine-purine dinucleotide. Insome embodiments, the antigen and/or immunostimulatory oligonucleotideis formulated for administration. In further embodiments, the antigenand/or immunostimulatory oligonucleotide are/is formulated foradministration via a parenteral route, wherein the parental route isintramuscular, subcutaneous, intradermal, intravenous orintraperitoneal. In still further embodiments, the antigen and/orimmunostimulatory oligonucleotide are/is formulated for administrationvia a topical route, wherein the topical route is the skin, transdermalor a mucosal surface. In further embodiments, the mucosal route is oral,intranasal, intravaginal, intrarectal, intra-buccal or intraocular. Insome embodiments, the antigen and immunostimulatory oligonucleotide areadministered via the same, similar or different routes. In otherembodiments, the antigen and immunostimulatory oligonucleotide areadministered in conjunction, simultaneously or separately. In furtherembodiments, the antigen and immunostimulatory oligonucleotide areadministered within 24 hours of each other. In some embodiments, thesubject is a species treated by veterinarian medicine. In otherembodiments, the subject is a non-rodent subject. In some embodiments,the subject is a human.

DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

FIG. 1A: Augmentation of humoral immune responses in mice. Adult (6-8wk; n=10/gp) mice were immunized with 1 μg of HBsAg without adjuvant orin combination with CPG 24555, 10103 or 7909 (10 μg) or non-CpG controlODN 2137 (10 μg; with OVA only). Plasma from 2 weeks (for HBsAg) or 1week (for OVA) post last boost was assayed for antigen-specific totalIgG, IgG1 and IgG2a/c levels (anti-HBs or anti-OVA). Each bar representsthe geometric mean (±SEM) titres for total IgG. Titers were defined asthe highest dilution resulting in an absorbance value two times that ofnon-immune plasma with a cut-off value of 0.05. The numbers above eachbar represents the ratio of antigen specific IgG2a(or 2c)/IgG1.

FIG. 1B: Augmentation of humoral immune responses in mice. Adult (6-8wk; n=10/gp) mice were immunized with 20 μg OVA without adjuvant or incombination with CPG 24555, 10103 or 7909 (10 μg) or non-CpG control ODN2137 (10 μg; with OVA only). Plasma from 2 weeks (for HBsAg) or 1 week(for OVA) post last boost was assayed for antigen-specific total IgG,IgG1 and IgG2a/c levels (anti-HBs or anti-OVA). Each bar represents thegeometric mean (±SEM) titres for total IgG. Titers were defined as thehighest dilution resulting in an absorbance value two times that ofnon-immune plasma with a cut-off value of 0.05. The numbers above eachbar represents the ratio of antigen specific IgG2a(or 2c)/IgG1.

FIG. 2A: Nature of the humoral immune response induced in mice. Adult(6-8 wk; n=10/gp) mice were immunized with 1 μg of HBsAg withoutadjuvant or in combination with CPG 24555, 10103 or 7909 (10 μg) ornon-CpG control ODN 2137 (10 μg; with OVA only). Plasma from 2 weeks(for HBsAg) or 1 week (for OVA) post last boost was assayed for IgG1(clear bars) and IgG2a or IgG2c (black bars) levels against HBsAg(Anti-HBs) or OVA (anti-OVA). Each bar represents the geometric mean(±SEM) of the ELISA end point dilution titer for the entire group(n=10). Titers were defined as the highest dilution resulting in anabsorbance value two times that of non-immune plasma with a cut-offvalue of 0.05.

FIG. 2B: Nature of the humoral immune response induced in mice. Adult(6-8 wk; n=10/gp) mice were immunized with 20 μg OVA without adjuvant orin combination with CPG 24555, 10103 or 7909 (10 μg) or non-CpG controlODN 2137 (10 μg; with OVA only). Plasma from 2 weeks (for HBsAg) or 1week (for OVA) post last boost was assayed for IgG1 (clear bars) andIgG2a or IgG2c (black bars) levels against HBsAg (Anti-HBs) or OVA(anti-OVA). Each bar represents the geometric mean (±SEM) of the ELISAend point dilution titer for the entire group (n=10). Titers weredefined as the highest dilution resulting in an absorbance value twotimes that of non-immune plasma with a cut-off value of 0.05.

FIG. 3A: Cytotoxic T lymphocyte responses induced in mice. Adult (6-8wk; n=5/gp) mice were immunized with 1 μg of HBsAg without adjuvant orin combination with CPG 24555, 10103 or 7909 (10 μg) or non-CpG controlODN 2137 (10 μg; with OVA only). Splenocytes from 2 weeks (for HBsAg) or1 week (for OVA) post last boost was assayed for antigen specific CTLresponses using standard ⁵¹Cr release assay.

FIG. 3B: Cytotoxic T lymphocyte responses induced in mice. Adult (6-8wk; n=5/gp) mice were immunized with 20 μg OVA without adjuvant or incombination with CPG 24555, 10103 or 7909 (10 μg) or non-CpG control ODN2137 (10 μg; with OVA only). Splenocytes from 2 weeks (for HBsAg) or 1week (for OVA) post last boost was assayed for antigen specific CTLresponses using standard ⁵¹Cr release assay.

FIG. 4: No CpG mediated augmentation in CTL responses in TLR9 deficientmice. TLR9 deficient adult (6-8 wk; n=5 gp) mice were immunized with 20μg OVA without adjuvant or in combination with CPG 24555, 10103 or 7909(10 μg) or non-CpG control ODN 2137 (10 μg). Splenocytes from 1 weekpost last boost was assayed for OVA specific CTL responses usingstandard ⁵¹Cr release assay.

FIG. 5: OVA specific CD8 T cells in wild type vs. TLR9 deficient mice.Wild type and TLR9 deficient adult (6-8 wk; n=5/gp) mice were immunizedwith 20 μg OVA without adjuvant or in combination with CPG 24555, 10103or 7909 (10 μg) or non-CpG control ODN 2137 (10 μg). Splenocytes from 1week post last boost were assayed for OVA specific CD8 T cells using MHCClass I H-2Kb -SIINFEKL tetramers.

FIG. 6A: Antigen specific IFN-g secretion in mice. Adult (6-8 wk;n=5/gp) mice were immunized with 1 μg of HBsAg (FIG. 6A)) withoutadjuvant or in combination with CPG 24555, 10103 or 7909 (10 μg) ornon-CpG control ODN 2137 (10 μg; with OVA only). Splenocytes from 2weeks (for HBsAg) or 1 week (for OVA) post last boost were stimulatedwith the relevant antigen as shown in the figures for 72 hr and culturesupernatants assayed for IFN-γ by ELISA.

FIG. 6B: Antigen specific IFN-g secretion in mice. Adult (6-8 wk;n=5/gp) mice were immunized with 20 μg OVA without adjuvant or incombination with CPG 24555, 10103 or 7909 (10 μg) or non-CpG control ODN2137 (10 μg; with OVA only). Splenocytes from 2 weeks (for HBsAg) or 1week (for OVA) post last boost were stimulated with the relevant antigenas shown in the figures for 72 hr and culture supernatants assayed forIFN-γ by ELISA.

FIG. 7: No CpG mediated augmentation in antigen specific IFN-g secretionin TLR9 deficient mice. TLR9 deficient adult (6-8 wk; n=5/gp) mice wereimmunized with 20 μg OVA without adjuvant or in combination with CPG24555, 10103 or 7909 (10 μg) or non-CpG control ODN 2137 (10 μg).Splenocytes 1 week post last boost were stimulated with OVA at 0, 0.5and 1 mg/ml concentrations for 72 hr and culture supernatants assayedfor IFN-γ by ELISA.

FIG. 8: Antigen specific multi-cytokine secreting T cell populations inmice. Adult (6-8 wk; n=5/gp) mice were immunized with 1 μg of HBsAg withantigen alone or in combination with CPG 24555, 10103 or 7909 (10 μg).Splenocytes from 2 weeks post boost were re-stimulated with the HBsAgantigen (for CD4) or HBs Class I peptide (for CD8) and CD4 (Panel A) andCD8 (Panel B) T cell populations secreting IFN-γ, TNF-α and/or IL-2 werequantified using flow cytometry.

FIG. 9A: Innate immunity in Human PBMC. Human PBMC (5×10⁶/ml) wereincubated with varying concentrations of CPG 10103, CPG 24555 or non-CpGcontrol ODN 22881 for 24 or 48 h. Cell supernatants were collected andassayed for cytokine/chemokine secretion using a commercial ELISA kit.FIG. 9A shows IFN-α, MCP-1 and IP-10 secretion.

FIG. 9B: Innate immunity in Human PBMC. Human PBMC (5×10⁶/ml) wereincubated with varying concentrations of CPG 10103, CPG 24555 or non-CpGcontrol ODN 22881 for 24 or 48 h. Cell supernatants were collected andassayed for cytokine/chemokine secretion using a commercial ELISA kit.FIG. 9B shows IL-6, IL-10 and IL-2R secretion.

FIG. 10A: Innate immunity in vivo in BALB/c mice. BALB/c mice(n=5/group) were injected subcutaneously with PBS (placebo control), CPG24555, CPG 10103 or non-CpG control ODN 2137 at 100 μg dose level.Animals were bled at 3 hour post injection and plasma assayed for IP-10(FIG. 10A) using commercial ELISA.

FIG. 10B: Innate immunity in vivo in BALB/c mice. BALB/c mice(n=5/group) were injected subcutaneously with PBS (placebo control), CPG24555, CPG 10103 or non-CpG control ODN 2137 at 100 μg dose level.Animals were bled at 3 hour post injection and plasma assayed for IL-12using commercial ELISA.

FIG. 10C: Innate immunity in vivo in BALB/c mice. BALB/c mice(n=5/group) were injected subcutaneously with PBS (placebo control), CPG24555, CPG 10103 or non-CpG control ODN 2137 at 100 μg dose level.Animals were bled at 3 hour post injection and plasma assayed for IL-6using commercial ELISA.

FIG. 11A: Humoral immunity in vivo in BALB/c mice. BALB/c mice wereimmunized intramuscularly with HBsAg (1 μg)±CPG 24555 or 10103 (10 μg),OVA (20 μg)±CPG 24555 or 10103 (10 μg), or with Influenza A HA fromTexas 1/77, H3N2 (1 μg)+alum (25 μg Al3+), ±CPG 24555 or 10103 (10 μg).The mice were immunized on 0 and 14 days (HBsAg), on 0, 7 and 21 days(OVA) or on day 0 only (HA). FIG. 11A shows HBsAg specific total IgGtiters at 2 weeks post boost measured by endpoint ELISA.

FIG. 11B: Humoral immunity in vivo in BALB/c mice. BALB/c mice wereimmunized intramuscularly with HBsAg (1 μg)±CPG 24555 or 10103 (10 μg),OVA (20 μg)±CPG 24555 or 10103 (10 μg), or with Influenza A HA fromTexas 1/77, H3N2 (1 μg)+alum (25 μg Al3+), ±CPG 24555 or 10103 (10 μg).The mice were immunized on 0 and 14 days (HBsAg), on 0, 7 and 21 days(OVA) or on day 0 only (HA). FIG. 11B shows OVA specific total IgGtiters at 1 week post last boost.

FIG. 11C: Humoral immunity in vivo in BALB/c mice. BALB/c mice wereimmunized intramuscularly with HBsAg (1 μg)±CPG 24555 or 10103 (10 μg),OVA (20 μg)±CPG 24555 or 10103 (10 μg), or with Influenza A HA fromTexas 1/77, H3N2 (1 μg)+alum (25 μg Al3+), ±CPG 24555 or 10103 (10 μg).The mice were immunized on 0 and 14 days (HBsAg), on 0, 7 and 21 days(OVA) or on day 0 only (HA). FIG. 11C shows kinetics of HA specifictotal IgG at various times post immunization measured by end pointELISA.

FIG. 12A: T cell responses in BALB/c mice. BALB/c mice were injectedintramuscularly with HBsAg (1 μg) with or without CPG ODN 2455, CPG10103 or non-CpG control ODN 2137 at 10 μg. The mice were injected on 0and 14 days. FIG. 12A shows HBsAg specific CTL measured by ⁵¹Cr releaseat 2 weeks post boost. C57bl/6 mice were injected intramuscularly withOVA (20 μg) with or without CPG ODN 2455, CPG 10103 or non-CpG controlODN 2137 at 10 μg. The mice were injected on 0, 7 and 21 days.

FIG. 12B: T cell responses in BALB/c mice. BALB/c mice were injectedintramuscularly with HBsAg (1 μg) with or without CPG ODN 2455, CPG10103 or non-CpG control ODN 2137 at 10 μg. The mice were injected on 0and 14 days. C57bl/6 mice were injected intramuscularly with OVA (20 μg)with or without CPG ODN 2455, CPG 10103 or non-CpG control ODN 2137 at10 μg. The mice were injected on 0, 7 and 21 days. FIG. 12B shows OVAspecific CTL measured by ⁵¹Cr release at 1 week post last boost.

FIG. 13A: T cell responses in BALB/c mice. BALB/c mice were injectedintramuscularly with HBsAg (1 μg) with or without CPG ODN 2455, CPG10103 or non-CpG control ODN 2137 at 10 μg. The mice were injected on 0and 14 days. Splenocytes from 2 week post last boost were incubated withrespective antigen for 72 hours and culture supernatants tested forIFN-γ by ELISA. C57bl/6 mice were injected intramuscularly with OVA (20μg) with or without CPG ODN 2455, CPG 10103 or non-CpG control ODN 2137at 10 μg. The mice were injected on 0, 7 and 21 days.

FIG. 13B: T cell responses in BALB/c mice. BALB/c mice were injectedintramuscularly with HBsAg (1 μg) with or without CPG ODN 2455, CPG10103 or non-CpG control ODN 2137 at 10 μg. C57bl/6 mice were injectedintramuscularly with OVA (20 μg) with or without CPG ODN 2455, CPG 10103or non-CpG control ODN 2137 at 10 μg. The mice were injected on 0, 7 and21 days. Splenocytes from 1 week post last boost were incubated withrespective antigen for 72 hours and culture supernatants tested forIFN-γ by ELISA.

FIG. 14: Anti-HA at 6 Weeks Post Immunization. Female BALB/c mice wereimmunized with HA (1 μg)±CpG or control ODN (10 μg)±alum (25 μg Al³⁺) ina total volume of 50 μl. The amount of anti-HA was measured at 6 weekspost immunization,

FIG. 15: Hemagglutination Inhibition (HIA) Titers at 4 Weeks PostImmunization. The functionality of the antibodies were evaluated using ahemagglutination inhibition assay (HIA). The ability to augment HIAtiters alone or in combination with alum was measured.

FIG. 16: HA-Specific IFNγ Secretion. Female BALB/c mice were immunizedwith HA (1 μg)±CpG or control ODN (10 μg)±alum (25 μg Al³⁺) in a totalvolume of 50 μl. Splenocytes removed at 6 weeks post immunization wereused to assay for antigen specific IFNγ secretion.

FIG. 17: Humoral Responses in non human primates. Cynomolgus monkeys(3-5 yrs of age; n=5 per group) were immunized with Engerix-B (10 μgHBsAg; 250 μg Al³⁺) alone or in combination with 0.5 mg pf CPG 7909 orCPG 24555 by intramuscular injection on weeks 0, 4 and 8. Animals werebled at regular time intervals and HBsAg-specific antibody titer wasmeasured using commercially available kits (MONOLISA™ Anti-HBS).

FIG. 18: Humoral Responses in non human primates. Cynomolgus monkeys(3-5 yrs of age; n=5 per group) were immunized with Engerix-B (10 μgHBsAg; 250 μg Al³) alone or in combination with 0.5 mg of CPG 7909 orCPG 24555 by intramuscular injection on weeks 0, 4 and 8, Plasma from 4weeks post 2^(nd) immunization and 2 weeks post 3^(rd) immunization wereassayed for antibody avidity using sodium thiocyanate elusion method.

FIG. 19A: T Cell Responses in non human primates: Cynomolgus monkeys(3-5 yrs of age; n=5 per group) were immunized with Engerix-B (10 μgHBsAg; 250 μg Al³) alone or in combination with 0.5 mg of CPG 7909 orCPG 24555 by intramuscular injection on weeks 0, 4 and 8. Peripheralblood mononuclear cells (PBMC) at pre vaccination and at several timepoints post vaccination were tested for HBsAg specific CD4 T cellmediated Intracellular cytokine secretion by flow cytometry.

FIG. 19B: T Cell Responses in non human primates: Cynomolgus monkeys(3-5 yrs of age; n=5 per group) were immunized with Engerix-B (10 μgHBsAg; 250 μg Al³) alone or in combination with 0.5 mg of CPG 7909 orCPG 24555 by intramuscular injection on weeks 0, 4 and 8. Peripheralblood mononuclear cells (PBMC) at pre vaccination and at several timepoints post vaccination were tested for HBsAg specific CD4 T cellmediated Intracellular cytokine secretion by flow cytometry. FIG. 19Bshows IL-2 secretion.

FIG. 19C: T Cell Responses in non human primates: Cynomolgus monkeys(3-5 yrs of age; n=5 per group) were immunized with Engerix-B (10 μgHBsAg; 250 μg Al³) alone or in combination with 0.5 mg of CPG 7909 orCPG 24555 by intramuscular injection on weeks 0, 4 and 8. Peripheralblood mononuclear cells (PBMC) at pre vaccination and at several timepoints post vaccination were tested for HBsAg specific CD4 T cellmediated Intracellular cytokine secretion by flow cytometry. FIG. 19Cshows TNF-α secretion.

FIG. 20A: T Cell Responses: Poly Functional CD4 T Cells; QuantitativeAnalysis. Cynomolgus monkeys (3-5 yrs of age; n=5 per group) wereimmunized with Engerix-B (10 μg HBsAg; 250 μg Al³) alone or incombination with 0.5 mg of CPG 7909 or CPG 24555 by intramuscularinjection on weeks 0, 4 and 8. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC)at 2 weeks post 3^(rd) immunization were tested for HBsAg specific CD4 Tcells secreting one, two or three cytokines by flow cytometry.

FIG. 20B: T Cell Responses: Poly Functional CD4 T Cells; QuantitativeAnalysis. Cynomolgus monkeys (3-5 yrs of age; n=5 per group) wereimmunized with Engerix-B (10 μg HBsAg; 250 μg Al³) alone or incombination with 0.5 mg of CPG 7909 or CPG 24555 by intramuscularinjection on weeks 0, 4 and 8, Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC)at 2 weeks post 3^(rd) immunization were tested for HBsAg specific CD4 Tcells secreting one, two or three cytokines by flow cytometry. FIG. 20Bshows proportion of single, double and triple cytokine producing T cellswithin total HBsAg specific CD4 T cell population.

FIG. 21A: T Cell Responses: poly functional CD4 T cells; QualitativeAnalysis. The number of cells secreting IL-2, IFN-γ and TNFα, orcombinations of these cytokines, was measured. Cynomolgus monkeys (3-5yrs of age; n=5 per group) were immunized with Engerix-B (10 μg HBsAg;250 μg Al³) alone or in combination with 0.5 mg of CPG 7909 or CPG 24555by intramuscular injection on weeks 0, 4 and 8. Peripheral bloodmononuclear cells (PBMC) at 2 weeks post 3^(rd) immunization were testedfor number of HBsAg specific CD4 T cells secreting IL-2, IFN-γ and TNFα,or combinations of these cytokines by flow cytometry.

FIG. 21B: T Cell Responses: poly functional CD4 T cells; QualitativeAnalysis. The number of cells secreting IL-2, IFN-γ and TNFα, orcombinations of these cytokines, was measured. Cynomolgus monkeys (3-5yrs of age; n=5 per group) were immunized with Engerix-B (10 μg HBsAg;250 μg Al³) alone or in combination with 0.5 mg of CPG 7909 or CPG 24555by intramuscular injection on weeks 0, 4 and 8. Peripheral bloodmononuclear cells (PBMC) at 2 weeks post 3^(rd) immunization were testedfor number of HBsAg specific CD4 T cells secreting IL-2, IFN-γ and TNFα,or combinations of these cytokines by flow cytometry.

DESCRIPTION OF SEQUENCES

SEQ ID NO:1—Nucleotide sequence of immunostimulatory oligonucleotide ODNCPG 24555.

SEQ ID NO:2—Nucleotide sequence of immunostimulatory oligonucleotide CPG10103.

SEQ ID NO:3—Nucleotide sequence of immunostimulatory oligonucleotide CPG7909.

SEQ ID NO:4—Nucleotide sequence of non-CpG oligonucleotide 22881.

SEQ ID NO:5—Nucleotide sequence of non-CpG oligonucleotide 2137.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Aspects of the invention are based, in part, on the surprising discoverythat the removal of a CpG motif from an immunostimulatoryoligonucleotide did not have a negative impact on the ability of theimmunostimulatory oligonucleotide to augment antigen-specific immuneresponses. It has also been surprisingly found that the removal of saidCpG motif allows the generation of an antigen-specific T cellspopulation which is different. In particular it has been found that saidantigen-specific T cells population comprises more IFN-gamma secreting Tcells and more poly-functional T cells.

In aspects of the invention, the immunostimulatory oligonucleotide hasthe nucleic acid sequence 5′ TCGTCGTTTTTCGGTGCTTTT 3′ (ODN CPG 24555;SEQ ID NO:1). The immunostimulatory oligonucleotide nucleic acidsequence of SEQ ID NO:1 differs from a previously reportedimmunostimulatory oligonucleotide (ODN 10103) 5′ TCGTCGTTTTTCGGTCGTTTT3′ (SEQ ID NO:2) by the reversal of the 3′ most CG dinucleotide. Thesimilarities in activity between the two immunostimulatoryoligonucleotides is surprising because it has been previously reportedthat immunostimulatory activity of CpG oligonucleotides is dependent onthe number of CpG motifs, the sequences flanking the CG dinucleotide,the location of the CpG motif(s) and the spacing between the CpG motifs(Ballas et al., 1996, J. Immunol. 157(5): 1840-5; Hartmann et al., 2000,J. Immunol., 164(3): 1617-24; Klinman et al., 2003, Clin. Exp. Immunol.,133(2): 227-32). The removal of the 3′ most CG dinucleotide inimmunostimulatory oligonucleotide CPG ODN 24555 (SEQ ID NO:1) did notresult in a negative impact on the ability of this immunostimulatoryoligonucleotide to augment antigen-specific immune responses as wouldhave been expected from previous disclosures. CPG ODN 24555 demonstratedsimilar and, in some cases, enhanced immunostimulatory activity whencompared with CPG ODN 10103.

In addition, it has been found that CPG ODN 24555 induces a differentpopulation of antigen-specific T cells as compared to CPG ODN 10103 (seeFIG. 8, table 1 and table 2). In particular, it has been surprisinglyfound that the antigen-specific T cells population (in particular theantigen-specific CD4+ T cell population) generated using CPG ODN 24555as adjuvant comprises more IFN-gamma secreting T cells and morepoly-functional T cells as compared to the antigen-specific T cellspopulation generated using CPG ODN 10103 or CPG ODN 7909.

For example a higher proportion of antigen-specific CD4+ T cellsproducing IFN-γ were obtained when compared to antigen-specific CD4+ Tcells population obtained with CpG ODN 10103. Also a higher proportionof poly-functional antigen-specific CD4+ T cells producing both IFN-γand TNF-α, both IFN-γ and IL-2 or both TNF-α and IL-2, or eventriple-producers secreting IFN-γ TNF-α and IL-2 was obtained whencompared to the antigen-specific CD4+ T cells population obtained withCPG ODN 10103 or CPG ODN 7909. Also a higher proportion ofantigen-specific CD8+ T cells producing TNF-α were obtained whencompared to antigen-specific CD8+ T cells population obtained with CPGODN 10103. A higher proportion of antigen-specific CD8+ T cellsproducing both IFN-γ and IL-2, both TNF-α and IL-2, or eventriple-producers secreting IFN-γ, TNF-α and IL-2 was also obtained whencompared to the antigen-specific CD8+ T cells population obtained withCPG ODN 10103 or CPG ODN 7909.

The importance of the poly-functionality of T cells in immunogenicityhas been highlighted recently. In particular poly-functionality ofantigen specific T cells in terms of chemokine production (such asIFN-γ, TNF-α and IL-2) has been correlated in some instances to theirprotective potential (see e.g. Harari A, et al., Immunol Rev. 2006;211:236-54, Makedonas G and Betts M R. Springer Semin Immunopathol.2006; 28(3):209-19, Precopio M L et al., J Exp Med. 2007 204(6):1405-16,Xu R et al. Vaccine. 2008; 26(37):4819-29) thought to be due to theirbetter effector function compared to T cells that secrete but a singlecytokine.

CPG ODN 24555 advantageously allows generating poly-functionalantigen-specific T cells populations when used as an adjuvant which canbe of importance in a vaccine setting.

The immunostimulatory nucleic acids can be double-stranded orsingle-stranded. Generally, double-stranded molecules are more stable invivo, while single-stranded molecules have increased immune activity. Insome aspects of the invention it is preferred that the nucleic acid besingle stranded and in other aspects it is preferred that the nucleicacid be double-stranded.

The terms “nucleic acid” and “oligonucleotide” are used interchangeablyherein to mean multiple nucleotides (i.e., molecules comprising a sugar(e.g., ribose or deoxyribose) linked to a phosphate group and to anexchangeable organic base, which is either a substituted pyrimidine(e.g., cytosine (C), thymidine (T) or uracil (U)) or a substitutedpurine (e.g., adenine (A) or guanine (G)). As used herein, the termsrefer to oligodeoxyribonucleotides, oligoribonucleotides (i.e., apolynucleotide minus the phosphate) and any other organic basecontaining polymer. Nucleic acid molecules can be obtained from existingnucleic acid sources (e.g., genomic or cDNA), but are preferablysynthetic (e.g., produced by nucleic acid synthesis).

In aspects of the invention, the immunostimulatory oligonucleotides canencompass various chemical modifications and substitutions, incomparison to natural RNA and DNA, involving a phosphodiesterinternucleoside bridge, a β-D-ribose unit and/or a natural nucleosidebase (adenine, guanine, cytosine, thymine, uracil). Examples of chemicalmodifications are known to the skilled person and are described, forexample in Uhlmann E. et al. (1990), Chem. Rev. 90:543; “Protocols forOligonucleotides and Analogs” Synthesis and Properties & Synthesis andAnalytical Techniques, S. Agrawal, Ed., Humana Press, Totowa, USA 1993;Crooke, S. T. et al. (1996) Annu. Rev. Pharmacol. Toxicol. 36:107-129;and Hunziker J. et al., (1995), Mod. Synth. Methods 7:331-417. Anoligonucleotide according to the invention may have one or moremodifications, wherein each modification is located at a particularphosphodiester internucleoside bridge and/or at a particular β-D-riboseunit and/or at a particular natural nucleoside base position incomparison to an oligonucleotide of the same sequence which is composedof natural DNA or RNA.

In aspects of the invention, the oligonucleotides may comprise one ormore modifications. Such modifications may be selected from: a) thereplacement of a phosphodiester internucleoside bridge located at the 3′and/or the 5′ end of a nucleoside by a modified internucleoside bridge,b) the replacement of phosphodiester bridge located at the 3′ and/or the5′ end of a nucleoside by a dephospho bridge, c) the replacement of asugar phosphate unit from the sugar phosphate backbone by another unit,d) the replacement of a β-D-ribose unit by a modified sugar unit, and e)the replacement of a natural nucleoside base.

Nucleic acids also include substituted purines and pyrimidines, such asC-5 propyne pyrimidine and 7-deaza-7-substituted purine modified bases(Wagner et al., 1996, Nat. Biotechnol. 14:840-4). Purines andpyrimidines include, but are not limited to, adenine, cytosine, guanine,thymidine, 5-methlycytosine, 2-aminopurine, 2-amino-6-chloropurine,2,6-diaminoputine, hypoxanthine, and other naturally and non-naturallyoccurring nucleobases, substituted and unsubstituted aromatic moieties.Other such modifications are well known to those of skill in the art.

A modified base is any base which is chemically distinct from thenaturally occurring bases typically found in DNA and RNA, such as T, C,G, A, and U, but which share basic chemical structures with thesenaturally occurring bases. The modified nucleoside base may be, forexample, selected from hypoxanthine, dihydrouracil pseudouracil,2-thiouracil, 4-thiouracil, 5-aminouracil, 5-(C₁-C₆)-alkyluracil,5-(C₂-C₆)-alkenyluracil, 5-(C₂-C₆)-alkylnyluracil,5-(hydroxymethyl)uracil, 5-chlorouracil, 5-fluorouracil, 5-bromouracil,5-hydroxycytosine, 5-(C₁-C₆)-alkylcytosine, 5-(C₂-C₆)-alkenylcytosine,5-(C₂-C₆)-alkylnylcytosine, 5-chlorocytosine, 5-fluorocytosine,5-bromocytosine, N²-dimethylguanine, 2,4-dimaino-purine, 8-azapurine, asubstituted 7-deazapurine, preferably 7-deaza-7-substituted and/or7-deaza-8-substituted purine, 5-hydroxymethlycytosine, N4-alkylcytosine(e.g., N4-ethylcytosine), 5-hydroxydeoxycytidine,5-hydroxymethyldeoxycytidine, N4-alkyldeoxycytidine (e.g.,N4-ehtyldeoxycytidine), 6-thiodeoxyguanosine, deoxyribonucleosides ofnitropyrrole, C5-propynylpyrimisine, diaminopurine (e.g.,2,6-diaminopurine), inosine, 5-methylcytosine, 2-aminopurine,2-amino-6-chloropurine, hypoxanthine or other modifications of a naturalnucleoside base. This list is meant to be exemplary and is not to beinterpreted to be limiting.

In some aspects of the invention, the CpG dinculeotide of theimmunostimulatory oligonucleotides described herein are preferablyunmethylated. An unmethylated CpG motif is an unmethylatedcytosine-guanine dinucleotide sequence (i.e., an unmethylated 5′cytosine followed by 3′ guanosine and linked by a phosphate bond). Inother aspects, the CpG motifs are methylated. A methylated CpG motif isa methylated cytosine-guanine dinucleotide sequence (i.e., a methylated5′ cytosine followed by a 3′ guanosine and linked by a phosphate bond).

In some aspects of the invention, an immunostimulatory oligonucleotidecan contain a modified cytosine. A modified cytosine is a naturallyoccurring or non-naturally occurring pyrimidine base analog of cytosinewhich can replace this base without impairing the immunostimulatoryactivity of the oligonucleotide. Modified cytosines include but are notlimited to 5-substituted cytosines (e.g., 5-methyl-cytosine,5-fluoro-cytosine, 5-chloro-cytosine, 5-bromo-cytosine, 5-iodo-cytosine,5-hydroxy-cytosine, 5-hydroxymethyl-cytosine, 5-difluoromethyl-cytosine,and unsubstituted or substituted 5-alkynyl-cytosine), 6-substitutedcytosines, N4-substituted cytosines (e.g., N4-ethyl-cytosine),5-aza-cytosine, 2-mercapto-cytosine, isocytosine, pseudo-isocytosine,cytosine analogs with condensed ring systems (e.g. N,N′-propylenecytosine or phenoxazine). Some of the preferred cytosines include5-methyl-cytosine, 5-fluoro-cytosine, 5-hydroxy-cytosine,5-hydroxymethyl-cytosine, and N4-ethyl-cytosine. In another embodimentof the invention, the cytosine base is substituted by a universal base(e.g. 3-nitropyrrole, P-base), an aromatic ring system (e.g.fluorobenzene or difluorobenzene) or a hydrogen atom (dSpacer). In someaspects, an immunostimulatory oligonucleotide can contain uracil and/orits derivatives (e.g., 5-fluoro-uracil, 5-bromo-uracil,5-bromovinyl-uracil, 4-thio-uracil, 5-hydroxy-uracil,5-propynyl-uracil).

In some aspects of the invention, an immunostimulatory oligonucleotidecan contain a modified guanine. A modified guanine is a naturallyoccurring or non-naturally occurring purine base analog of guanine whichcan replace this base without impairing the immunostimulatory activityof the oligonucleotide. Modified guanines include but are not limited to7-deazaguanine, 7-deaza-7-substituted guanine, hypoxanthine,N2-substituted guanines (e.g., N2-methyl-guanine),5-amino-3-methyl-3H,6H-thiazolo[4,5-d]pyrimidine-2,7-dione,2,6-diaminopurine, 2-aminopurine, purine, indole, adenine, substitutedadenines (e.g., N6-methyl-adenine, 8-oxo-adenine), 8-substituted guanine(e.g., 8-hydroxyguanine or 8-bromoguanine), and 6-thioguanine. Inanother embodiment of the invention, the guanine base is substituted bya universal base (e.g., 4-methyl-indole, 5-nitro-indole, or K-base), anaromatic ring system (e.g., benzimidazole or dichloro-benzimidazole,1-methyl-1H-[1,2,4]triazole-3-carboxylic acid amide) or a hydrogen atom(dSpacer).

In certain aspects, the oligonucleotides may include modifiedinternucleotide linkages. These modified linkages may be partiallyresistant to degradation (e.g., are stabilized). A “stabilized nucleicacid molecule” shall mean a nucleic acid molecule that is relativelyresistant to in vivo degradation (e.g., via an exo- or endo-nuclease).Stabilization can be a function of length or secondary structure.Nucleic acids that are tens to hundreds of kilobases long are relativelyresistant to in vivo degradation. For shorter nucleic acids, secondarystructure can stabilize and increase their effect. The formation of astem loop structure can stabilize a nucleic acid molecule. For example,if the 3′ end of a nucleic acid has self-complementarity to an upstreamregion so that it can fold back and form a stem loop structure, then thenucleic acid can become stabilized and exhibit more activity.

Nucleic acid stabilization can also be accomplished via phosphatebackbone modifications. Oligonucleotides having phosphorothioatelinkages, in some embodiments, may provide maximal activity and protectthe oligonucleotide from degradation by intracellular exo- andend-nucleases.

For use in vivo, nucleic acids are preferably relatively resistant todegradation (e.g., via endo- and exo-nucleases). It has beendemonstrated that modification of the nucleic acid backbone providesenhanced activity of nucleic acids when administered in vivo. Secondarystructures, such as stem loops, can stabilize nucleic acids againstdegradation. Alternatively, nucleic acid stabilization can beaccomplished via phosphate backbone modifications. A preferredstabilized nucleic acid has at least a partial phosphorothioate modifiedbackbone. Phosphorothioates may be synthesized using automatedtechniques employing either phosphoramidate or H-phosphonatechemistries. Aryl- and alkyl-phosphonates can be made for example, asdescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,469,863; and alkylphosphotriesters (inwhich the charged oxygen moiety is alkylated as described in U.S. Pat.No. 5,023,243 and European Patent No. 092,574) can be prepared byautomated solid phase synthesis using commercially available reagents.Methods for making other DNA backbone modifications and substitutionshave been described (Uhlmann, E. and Peyman, A. (1990) Chem. Rev.90:544; Goodchild, J. (1990) Bioconjugate Chem. 1:165). 2′-O-methylnucleic acids with CpG motifs also cause immune activation, as doethoxy-modified CpG nucleic acids. In fact, no backbone modificationshave been found that completely abolish the CpG effect, although it isgreatly reduced by replacing the C with a 5-methyl C. Constructs havingphosphorothioate linkages provide maximal activity and protect thenucleic acid from degradation by intracellular exo- and endo-nucleases.Other modified nucleic acids include phosphodiester modified nucleicacids, combinations of phosphodiester and phosphorothioate nucleic acid,methylphosphonate, methylphosphorothioate, phosphorordithioate,p-ethoxy, and combinations thereof. Each of these combinations and theirparticular effects on immune cells is discussed in more detail withrespect to CpG nucleic acids in PCT Published Patent ApplicationsPCT/US95/01570 (WO 96/02555) and PCT/US97/19791 (WO 98/18810) and inU.S. Pat. No. 6,194,388 B1 issued on Feb. 27, 2001 and U.S. Pat. No.6,239,116 B1 issued on May 29, 2001. It is believed that these modifiednucleic acids may show more stimulatory activity due to enhancednuclease resistance, increased cellular uptake, increased proteinbinding, and/or altered intracellular localization.

For administration in vivo, nucleic acids may be associated with amolecule that results in a higher affinity binding to a target cell(e.g., B-cell, monocytic cell or natural killer (NK) cell) surfacesand/or increased cellular uptake by target cells to form a “nucleic aciddelivery complex”. Nucleic acids can be ionically or covalentlyassociated with appropriate molecules using techniques which are wellknown in the art. A variety of coupling or crosslinking agents can beused such as, protein A, carbodiimide, orN-succinimidyl-3-(2-pyridyldithio) propionate (SPDP). Nucleic acids canalternatively be encapsulated in liposomes or virosomes using well-knowntechniques.

Other stabilized nucleic acids include, but are not limited to,nonioninc DNA analogs, such as alkyl- and aryl-phosphates (in which thecharged phosphonate oxygen is replaced by an alkyl or aryl group),phosphodiester and alkylphosphotriesters, in which the charged oxygenmoiety is alkylated. Nucleic acids which contain a diol, such astetraethyleneglycol or hexaethyleneglycol, at either or both terminihave also been shown to be substantially resistant to nucleasedegradation. In some embodiments, an immunostimulatory oligonucleotideof the invention may include at least one lipophilic substitutednucleotide analog and/or a pyrimidine-purine dinucleotide.

The oligonucleotides may have one or two accessible 5′ ends. It ispossible to create modified oligonucleotides having two such 5′ ends,for instance, by attaching two oligonucleotides through a 3′-3′ linkageto generate an oligonucleotide having one or two accessible 5′ ends. The3′3′-linkage may be a phosphodiester, phosphorothioate or any othermodified internucleoside bridge. Methods for accomplishing such linkagesare known in the art. For instance, such linkages have been described inSeliger, H. et al., Oligonucleotide analogs with terminal 3′-3′- and5′-5′-internucleotidic linkages as antisense inhibitors of viral geneexpression, Nucleosides & Nucleotides (1991), 10(1-3), 469-77 and Jiang,et al., Pseudo-cyclic oligonucleotides: in vitro and in vivo properties,Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry (1999), 7(12), 2727-2735.

Additionally, 3′3′-linked oligonucleotides where the linkage between the3′ terminal nucleosides is not a phosphodiester, phosphorothioate orother modified bridge, can be prepared using an additional spacer, suchas tri- or tetra-ethylenglycol phosphate moiety (Durand, M. et al.,Triple-helix formation by an oligonucleotide containing one (dA)12 andtwo (dT)12 sequences bridged by two hexaethylene glycol chains,Biochemistry (1992), 31(38), 9197-204, U.S. Pat. No. 5,658,738, and U.S.Pat. No. 5,668,265). Alternatively, the non-nucleotidic linker may bederived from ethanediol, propanediol, or from an abasic deoxyribose(dSpacer) unit (Fontanel, Marie Laurence et al., Sterical Recognition byT4 polynucleotide kinase of non-nucleosidic moieties 5′-attached tooligonucleotides; Nucleic Acids Research (1994), 22(11), 2022-7) usingstandard phosphoramidite chemistry. The non-nucleotidic linkers can beincorporated once or multiple times, or combined with each otherallowing for any desirable distance between the 3′-ends of the twooligonucleotides to be linked.

A phosphodiester internucleoside bridge located at the 3′ and/or the 5′end of a nucleoside can be replaced by a modified internucleosidebridge, wherein the modified internucleoside bridge is for exampleselected from phosphorothioate, phosphorodithioate,NR¹R²-phosphoramidate, boranophosphate, α-hydroxybenzyl phosphonate,phosphate-(C₁-C₂₁)—O-alkyl ester,phosphate-[(C₆-C₁₂)aryl-(C₁-C₂₁)—O-alkyl]ester, (C₁-C₈)alkylphosphonateand/or (C₆-C₁₂)arylphosphonate bridges, (C₇-C₁₂)-α-hydroxymethyl-aryl(e.g., as disclosed in WO 95/01363), wherein (C₆-C₁₂)aryl, (C₆-C₂₀)aryland (C₆-C₁₄)aryl are optionally substituted by halogen, alkyl, alkoxy,nitro, cyano, and where R¹ and R² are, independently of each other,hydrogen, (C₁-C₁₈)-alkyl, (C₆-C₂₀)-aryl, (C₆-C₁₄)-aryl, (C₁-C₈)-alkyl,preferably hydrogen, (C₁-C₈)-alkyl, preferably (C₁-C₄)-alkyl and/ormethoxyethyl, or R¹ and R² form, together with the nitrogen atomcarrying them, a 5 or 6-membered heterocyclic ring which canadditionally contain a further heteroatom from the group O, S and N.

The replacement of a phosphodiester bridge located at the 3′ and/or the5′ end of a nucleoside by a dephospho bridge (dephospho bridges aredescribed, for example, in Uhlmann E. and Peyman A. in “Methods inMolecular Biology”, Vol. 20, “Protocols for Oligonucleotides andAnalogs”, S. Agrawal, Ed., Humana Press, Totowa 1993, Chapter 16, pp.355 if), wherein a dephospho bridge is for example selected from thedephospho bridges formacetal, 3′-thioformacetal, methylhydroxylamine,oxime, methylenedimethyl-hydrazo, dimethylenesulfone and/or silylgroups.

The immunostimulatory oligonucleotides of the invention may optionallyhave chimeric backbones. A chimeric backbone is one that comprises morethan one type of linkage. In one embodiment, the chimeric backbone canbe represented by the formula: 5′ Y₁N₁ZN₂Y₂ 3′. Y₁ and Y₂ are nucleicacid molecules having between 1 and 10 nucleotides. Y₁ and Y₂ eachinclude at least one modified internucleotide linkage. Since at least 2nucleotides of the chimeric oligonucleotides include backbonemodifications these nucleic acids are an example of one type ofstabilized immunostimulatory nucleic acids.

With respect to the chimeric oligonucleotides, Y₁ and Y₂ are consideredindependent of one another. This means that each of Y₁ and Y₂ may or maynot have different sequences and different backbone linkages from oneanother in the same molecule. In some embodiments, Y₁ and/or Y₂ havebetween 3 and 8 nucleotides. N₁ and N₂ are nucleic acid molecules havingbetween 0 and 5 nucleotides as long as N₁ZN₂ has at least 6 nucleotidesin total. The nucleotides of N₁ZN₂ have a phosphodiester backbone and donot include nucleic acids having a modified backbone. Z is animmunostimulatory nucleic acid motif, preferably selected from theimmunostimulatory oligonucleotide recited herein.

The center nucleotides (N₁ZN₂) of the formula Y₁N₁ZN₂Y₂ havephosphodiester internucleotide linkages and Y₁ and Y₂ have at least one,but may have more than one or even may have all modified internucleotidelinkages. In preferred embodiments, Y₁ and/or Y₂ have at least two orbetween two and five modified internucleotide linkages or Y₁ has fivemodified internucleotide linkages and Y₂ has two modifiedinternucleotide linkages. The modified internucleotide linkage, in someembodiments, is a phosphorothioate modified linkage, a phosphoroditioatelinkage or a p-ethoxy modified linkage.

The nucleic acids also include nucleic acids having backbone sugarswhich are covalently attached to low molecular weight organic groupsother than a hydroxyl group at the 2′ position and other than aphosphate group at the 5′ position. Thus, modified nucleic acids mayinclude a 2′-O-alkylated ribose group. In addition, modified nucleicacids may include sugars such as arabinose or 2′-fluoroarabinsoe insteadof ribose. Thus, the nucleic acids may be heterogeneous in backbonecomposition thereby containing any possible combination of polymer unitslinked together such as peptide-nucleic acids (which have an amino acidbackbone with nucleic acid bases). In some embodiments, the nucleicacids are homogeneous in backbone composition.

A sugar phosphate unit (i.e., a β-D-ribose and phosphodiesterinternucleoside bridge together forming a sugar phosphate unit) from thesugar phosphate backbone (i.e., a sugar phosphate backbone is composedof sugar phosphate units) can be replaced by another unit, wherein theother unit is for example suitable to build up a “morpholino-derivative”oligomer (as described, for example, in Stirchak E. P. et al. (1989)Nucleic Acid Res. 17:6129-41), that is, e.g., the replacement by amorpholino-derivative; or to build up a polyamide nucleic acid (“PNA”;as described, for example, in Nielsen P. E. et al. (1994) Bioconjug.Chem. 5:3-7), that is, for example, the replacement by a PNA backboneunit, e.g., by 2-aminoehtylglycine. The oligonucleotide may have othercarbohydrate backbone modifications and replacements, such as peptidenucleic acids with phosphate groups (PHONA), locked nucleic acids (LNA),and oligonucleotides having backbone sections with alkyl linkers oramino linkers. The alkyl linker may be branched or unbranched,substituted or unsubstituted, and chirally pure or a racemic mixture.

A β-ribose unit or a β-D-2′ deoxyribose unit can be replaced by amodified sugar unit, wherein the modified sugar unit is for exampleselected from β-D-ribose, α-D-2′-deoxyribose, L-2′-deoxyribose,2′-F-2′-deoxyribose, 2′-F-arabinose, 2′-O—(C₁-C₆)alkyl-ribose,preferably 2′-O—(C₁-C₆) alkyl-ribose is 2′-O-methylribose,2′-O—(C₁-C₆)alkenyl-ribose, 2′-[O—(C₁-C₆)alkyl-O—(C₁-C₆)alkyl]-ribose,2′-NH₂-2′-deoxyribose, β-D-xylo-furanose, α-arabinofuranose,2,4-dideoxy-β-D-erythro-hexo-pyranose, a carbocyclic (described, forexample, in Froehler J. (1992) Am. Chem. Soc. 114:8320) and/oropen-chain sugar analogs (described, for example, in Vandendriessche etal. (1993) Tetrahedron 49:7223) and/or bicyclosugar analogs (described,for example, in Tarkoy M. et al. (1993) Helv. Chim. Acta. 76:481).

In some embodiments, the sugar is 2′-O-methylribose, particularly forone or both nucleotides linked by a phosphodiester orphosphodiester-like internucleoside linkage.

The oligonucleotides of the invention can be synthesized de novo usingany of a number of procedures well known in the art. For example, theb-cyanoethyl phosphoramidite method (Beaucage, S. L., and Caruthers, M.H., (1981) Tet. Let. 22:1859); nucleoside H-phosphonate method (Garegget al., (1986) Tet. Let. 27:4051-4054; Froehler et al., (1986) Nucl.Acid Res. 14:5399-5407; Garegg et al., (1986) 27:4055-4058; Gaffney etal., (1988) Tet. Let. 29:2619-2622). These chemistries can be performedby a variety of automated nucleic acid synthesizers available in themarket. These oligonucleotides are referred to as syntheticoligonucleotides. Alternatively, T-rich and/or TG dinucleotides can beproduced on a large scale in plasmids, (see Sambrook T. et al.,“Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual”, Cold Spring Harbor laboratoryPress, New York, 1989) and separated into smaller pieces or administeredas whole plasmids. Nucleic acids can be prepared from existing nucleicacid sequences (e.g., genomic or cDNA) using known techniques, such asthose employing restriction enzymes, exonucleases or endonucleases.

In an embodiment of the invention, all internucleotide linkages of theimmunostimulatory oligonucleotide are phosphorothioate linkages.

Modified backbones such as phosphorothioates may be synthesized usingautomated techniques employing either phosphoramidate or H-phosphonatechemistries. Aryl- and alkyl-phoshonates can be made, e.g., as describedin U.S. Pat. No. 4,469,863, and alkylphosphotriesters (in which thecharged oxygen moiety is alkylated as described in U.S. Pat. No.5,023,243) can be prepared by automated solid phase synthesis usingcommercially available reagents. Methods for making other DNA backbonemodifications and substitutions have been described (e.g. Uhlmann, E.and Peyman, A., Chem. Rev. 90:544, 1990; Goodchild, J., BioconjugateChem. 1:165, 1990).

Nucleic acids prepared in this manner are referred to as isolatednucleic acid. An “isolated nucleic acid” generally refers to a nucleicacid which is separated from components with which it is separated froma cell, from a nucleus, from mitochondria or from chromatin and anyother components that may be considered as contaminants.

In an embodiment, the immunostimulatory oligonucleotide of the inventionconsists of 5′ T*C*G*T*C*G*T*T*T*T*T*C*G*G*T*G*C*T*T*T*T 3′ (SEQ IDNO:1) wherein * indicates phosphorothioate linkage.

In an embodiment, the immunostimulatory oligonucleotide of the inventioninduces a high proportion of antigen-specific CD4+ T-cells secretingIFN-γ. In an embodiment, the immunostimulatory oligonucleotide of theinvention is able to induce at least 40%, preferably at least 45%, evenpreferably at least 50%, even preferably about 53% of antigen-specificCD4+ T-cells secreting IFN-γ, in the antigen-specific CD4+ T-cellpopulation secreting IFN-γ, TNF-α and/or IL-2. In an embodiment, saidproportion of antigen-specific CD4+ T-cells secreting IFN-γ isdetermined by polychromatic flow cytometry. An example of suchdetermination is disclosed at example 1 of the present document (seeparagraph ‘Antigen specific multi-cytokine secreting T cellpopulations’).

In an embodiment, the immunostimulatory oligonucleotide of the inventionis able to induce at least 10%, preferably at least 15%, even preferablyat least 20%, even preferably about 22% of antigen-specific CD4+ T-cellssecreting both IFN-γ and TNF-α, in the antigen-specific CD4+ T-cellpopulation secreting IFN-γ, TNF-α and/or IL-2. In an embodiment, saidproportion of poly-functional antigen-specific CD4+ T-cells secretingboth IFN-γ and TNF-α is determined by polychromatic flow cytometry. Anexample of such determination is disclosed at example 1 of the presentdocument (see paragraph ‘Antigen specific multi-cytokine secreting Tcell populations’).

In an embodiment, the immunostimulatory oligonucleotide of the inventionis able to induce at least 30%, preferably at least 40%, even preferablyat least 45%, even preferably about 47% of antigen-specific CD8+ T-cellssecreting both IFN-γ and TNF-α, in the antigen-specific CD8+ T-cellpopulation secreting IFN-γ, TNF-α and/or IL-2. In an embodiment, saidproportion of poly-functional antigen-specific CD8+ T-cells secretingboth IFN-γ and TNF-α is determined by polychromatic flow cytometry. Anexample of such determination is disclosed at example 1 of the presentdocument (see paragraph ‘Antigen specific multi-cytokine secreting Tcell populations’).

The nucleic acids of the invention can be used as stand alone therapies.A stand alone therapy is a therapy in which a prophylactically ortherapeutically beneficial result can be achieved from theadministration of a single agent or composition. Accordingly, thenucleic acids disclosed herein can be used alone in the prevention ortreatment of infectious disease because the nucleic acids are capable ofinducing immune responses that are beneficial to the therapeutic outcomeof these diseases. Some of the methods referred to herein relate to theuse of the nucleic acids in combination with other therapeutic agents.

The nucleic acids of the invention may be used in a vaccine. When usedin a vaccine, the nucleic acid may be administered with an antigen.Preferably the antigen is specific for the disorder sought to beprevented or treated. For example, if the disorder is an infectiousdisease, the antigen is preferably derived from the infectious organism(e.g., bacterium, virus, parasite, fungus, etc.), if the disorderinvolves a self antigen (e.g., a tumor, neurodegenerative disorder suchas Alzheimer's Disease, an antigen against a human antibody, or anantigen that is expressed from human endogenous retroviral elements),the antigen is preferably derived from the particular disorderassociated with the antigen. If the disorder involves an addictivesubstance, the antigen is preferably derived from the particularadditive substance associated with the antigen (e.g., a nicotinehapten).

As used herein, the terms “disorder” and “disease” are usedinterchangeably.

In an embodiment, the invention pertains to the immunostimulatoryoligonucleotide of the invention for use as an adjuvant in a vaccine forthe treatment or prevention of a disease, wherein said vaccine comprisesat least one antigen and wherein said disease benefits from thegeneration of polyfunctional antigen specific T cells.

It has been found that CPG ODN 24555 induces a higher proportion ofantigen-specific CD4+ T cells producing IFN-γ when compared toantigen-specific CD4+ T cells population obtained with CPG ODN 10103.Also a higher proportion of polyfunctional antigen-specific CD4+ T cellsproducing both IFN-γ and TNF-α, both IFN-γ and IL-2, both TNF-α andIL-2, or even triple producers of IFN-γ, TNF-α and IL-2 was obtainedwhen compared to the antigen-specific CD4+ T cells population obtainedwith CPG ODN 10103 or CPG ODN 7909. A higher proportion ofpolyfunctional antigen-specific CD8+ T cells producing both IFN-γ andIL-2, both TNF-α and IL-2, or even triple producers of IFN-γ TNF-α andIL-2 was also obtained when compared to the antigen-specific CD8+ Tcells population obtained with CPG ODN 10103 or CPG ODN 7909.

IFN-γ, TNF-α and IL-2 have been involved in a variety of diseases. Forexample, TNF-α has been involved in cancer and IFN-γ has been involvedin infectious diseases, such as viral infections. Therefore, in anembodiment, the invention pertains to the immunostimulatoryoligonucleotide of the invention for use as an adjuvant in a vaccine forthe treatment or prevention of cancer. In an embodiment, the inventionpertains to the immunostimulatory oligonucleotide of the invention foruse as an adjuvant in a vaccine for the treatment or prevention ofcancer, wherein said vaccine comprises at least one tumor antigen,preferably any of the tumor antigens disclosed herein.

In an embodiment, the invention pertains to the immunostimulatoryoligonucleotide of the invention for use as an adjuvant in a vaccine forthe treatment or prevention of an infectious disease. In an embodiment,the invention pertains to the immunostimulatory oligonucleotide of theinvention for use as an adjuvant in a vaccine for the treatment orprevention of an infectious disease, wherein said vaccine comprises atleast one microbial antigen, preferably any of the microbial antigensdisclosed herein.

The immunostimulatory oligonucleotides are useful in some aspects of theinvention as a prophylactic vaccine for the prevention of an infection(i.e., an infectious disease), a disorder associated with a selfantigen, or a disorder associated with an addictive substance.Preferably, prophylactic vaccination is used in subjects that are notdiagnosed with the condition for which the vaccine is sought, and morepreferably the subjects are considered at risk of developing one ofthese conditions. For example, the subject may be one that is at risk ofdeveloping an infection with an infectious organism, or susceptible to adisorder associated with a self antigen, or susceptible to a disorderassociated with an addictive substance.

A subject at risk, as used herein, is a subject who has any risk ofexposure to an infection causing pathogen, a disorder associated with aself antigen or a disorder associated with an addictive substance. Asubject at risk also includes subjects that have a predisposition todeveloping such disorders. Some predispositions can be genetic (and canthereby be identified either by genetic analysis or by family history).Some predispositions are environmental (e.g., prior exposure toinfectious agents, self antigens or addictive substances). For a subjectat risk of developing an infection, an example of such a subject is asubject living in or expecting to travel to an area where a particulartype of infectious agent is or has been found, or it may be a subjectwho through lifestyle or medical procedures is exposed to an organismeither directly or indirectly by contact with bodily fluids that maycontain infectious organisms. Subjects at risk of developing infectionalso include general populations to which a medical agency recommendsvaccination for a particular infectious organism.

A subject is a subject treated by veterinarian medicine, a rodent or anon-rodent subject. Non-rodent subjects include, but are not limited to,human or vertebrate animal, such as a dog, a cat, a horse, a cow, a pig,a sheep, a goat, a chicken, a primate (e.g., monkey) and a fish(aquaculture species, e.g., salmon). Rodent subjects include, but arenot limited to, rats and mice. In some embodiments, a subject is ahuman.

The immunostimulatory oligonucleotides can also be given to a subjectwithout an antigen for shorter term protection against infection. Inthis case, repeated doses will allow for longer term protection.

A subject having an infection is a subject that has been exposed to aninfectious pathogen and has acute or chronic detectable levels of thepathogen in the body, or in bodily waste. When used therapeutically, theimmunostimulatory oligonucleotides can be used as stand alone or incombination with another therapeutic agent. For example,immunostimulatory oligonucleotides can be used therapeutically with anantigen to mount an antigen specific systemic or mucosal immune responsethat is capable of reducing the level of, or eradicating, the infectiouspathogen.

An infectious disease, as used herein, is a disease arising from thepresence of a foreign microorganism in the body. It is particularlyimportant to develop effective vaccine strategies and treatments toprotect the body's mucosal surfaces which are the primary site ofpathogenic entry.

A disorder associated with a self antigen is any disorder that is causedby an antigen of a subject's own cells or cell products that causes animmune response in said subject. For example, in some embodiments, aself antigen is a tumor antigen, an antigen associated with Alzheimer'sDisease, an antigen against an antibody, or an antigen that is expressedfrom human endogenous retroviral elements. A tumor antigen may be HER2,MAGE, NYESO-1, PSA, CEA or a variant form of EGFR. An antigen associatedwith Alzheimer's Disease may be tau or β-amyloid. An antigen against anantibody may be an antigen against a human antibody, for example, insome embodiments the antigen is IgE.

In some embodiments, a tumor antigen is MAGE A1, MAGE A2, MAGE A3, MAGEA4, MAGE A6, MAGE A10, MAGE Al2, HAGE (CT13), BAGE, BORIS, SSX-2,LAGE-1, CAMEL (LAGE-1 alt reading frame), GAGE 1,2,3, TRAG-3, NY-ESO-1,Melan-A/MART-1, tyrosinase, tyrp1 (gp75), tyrp2, gp100/pmel17, PAP, PSA,CEA, Ep-CAM, PSMA, MUC1, MUC2, HER-2, AFP, EphA2, FGF-5, htert, iCE,Livin (ML-IAP), RAGE, RU2, Survivin, Survivin 2B, WT1,Thomsen-Friedenreich (TF) antigen, 5T4, PSCA, STEAP, TGR, Adipophilin,AIM-2, G250, OGT, TGFaRII, CO-95 (KIAA1416), CO-94 (seb4D), CO-9 (HDAC5), CO-61 (HIP1R), CO-58 (KNSL6), CO-45, CO-42 (TRIP4), CO-41 (MBD2),Ren-32 (Lamin C), TNKL (BC-203), CO-26 (MNK 1), SDCCAG3, GA733-2, STn,CAl25, EGFRvIII, BCR-abl, High Affinity Folate Receptor, Mesothelin,hCG, FAP alpha, Cyclin 1, Topoisomerase, Serpin B5/Maspin, Legumain,CDK4, PRAME, ADAM 17, EDDR1, CDC2, Replication Protein A, CDK2, GM2,Globo H, TF(c), Leg, Tn(c), STn(c), GD2, GD3 or GD3L.

A disorder associated with an addictive substance is any disorder thatinvolves a chemical or biological substance that causes a subject todevelop an addiction to an addictive substance. For example, in someembodiments, an addictive substance may be nicotine or cocaine. In someembodiments, a nicotine antigen may be a nicotine hapten conjugated to acarrier. In some embodiments, the carrier to which a nicotine hapten isconjugated is diphtheria toxin.

As used herein, the term “treat”, “treated” or “treating” when used withrespect to an infectious disease refers to a prophylactic treatmentwhich increases the resistance of a subject (a subject at risk ofinfection) to infection with a pathogen, or in other words, decreasesthe likelihood that the subject will become infected with the pathogenas well as a treatment after the subject (a subject who has beeninfected) has become infected in order to fight the infection, e.g.,reduce or eliminate the infection or prevent it from becoming worse.

The term “treat”, “treated” or “treating” when used with respect to adisorder associated with a self antigen refers to a prophylactictreatment which increases the resistance of a subject (a subject at riskof a disorder associated with a self antigen) to develop such a disorderor decreases the likelihood that the subject will develop the disorderassociated with a self antigen as well as treatment after the subject (asubject at risk of a disorder associated with a self antigen) hasdeveloped such a disorder or begun to develop signs or symptoms ofdeveloping such a disorder, to reduce the effect of the disorder, e.g.,reduce or eliminate the signs or symptoms associated with the disorderor prevent them from becoming worse.

The term “treat”, “treated” or “treating” when used with respect to adisorder associated with an addictive substance refers to a prophylactictreatment which increases the resistance of a subject (a subject at riskof a disorder associated with an addictive substance) to develop such adisorder or decreases the likelihood that the subject will develop thedisorder associated with an addictive substance as well as treatmentafter the subject (a subject at risk of a disorder associated with anaddictive substance) has developed such a disorder or begun to developsigns or symptoms of developing such a disorder, to reduce the effect ofthe disorder, e.g., reduce or eliminate the signs or symptoms associatedwith the disorder or prevent them from becoming worse.

The treatment of a subject or with an immunostimulatory oligonucleotideas described herein, results in the reduction of infection or thecomplete abolition of the infection, reduction of the signs/symptomsassociated with a disorder associated with a self antigen or thecomplete abolition on the disorder, or reduction of the signs/symptomsassociated with a disorder associated with an addictive substance or thecomplete abolition of the disorder. A subject may be considered astreated if such symptoms related to the infectious disease, disorderassociated with a self antigen or disorder associated with an addictivesubstance are reduced, are managed or are abolished as a result of suchtreatment. For an infectious disease, such treatment also encompasses areduction in the amount of infectious agent present in the subject(e.g., such amounts can be measured using standard assays such as ELISAknown to those of ordinary skill in the art). For a disorder associatedwith a self antigen, such treatment also encompasses a reduction in theamount of self antigen present in the subject or a reduction in theimmune response induced as a result of the self antigen. For a disorderassociated with an addictive substance, such treatment also encompassesa reduction in the signs/symptoms associated with addiction to anaddictive substance.

An “antigen” as used herein is a molecule that is capable of provokingan immune response. Antigens include, but are not limited to, cells,cell extracts, proteins, recombinant proteins, purified proteins,polypeptides, peptides, polysaccharides, polysaccharide conjugates,peptide and non-peptide mimics of polysaccharides and other moleculesencoded by plasmid DNA, haptens, small molecules, lipids, glycolipids,carbohydrates, whole killed pathogens, viruses and viral extracts, liveattenuated virus or viral vector, live attenuated bacteria or abacterial vector and multicellular organisms such as parasites andallergens. The term antigen broadly includes any type of molecule whichis recognized by a host immune system as being foreign. Antigensinclude, but are not limited to, microbial antigens, self antigens andaddictive substances.

In some aspects, an antigen is conjugated to a carrier. In someembodiments, the carrier is diphtheria toxin, or a virus-like particle.In some embodiments, a virus-like particle is comprised of RNA phageQ-β, hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), or hepatitis B core antigen(HBcAg).

A “microbial antigen” as used herein is an antigen of a microorganismand includes, but is not limited to, virus, bacteria, parasites andfungi. In some embodiments, a bacterial antigen is one associated withthe bacterium Staphylococcus aureus. In other embodiments, a bacterialantigen is one associated with a bacterium that causes dental caries,for example, Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sobrinus, Streptococcussanguis, Lactobcaillus acidophilis or Actinomyces viscosus. In someembodiments, a bacterial antigen is one associated with a bacterium thatcauses periodontal disease, for example, Porphyromonas gingivalis orActinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans. In some embodiments, a viralantigen is one associated with Respiratory Syncytical Virus (RSV),Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV1), Herpes Simplex Virus 2 (HSV2), or HumanImmunodeficiency Virus-1 (HIV-1) or HIV-2. In some embodiments, aparasitic antigen is one associated with a parasite that causes malaria.

Such antigens include the intact microorganism as well as naturalisolates and fragments or derivatives thereof and also syntheticcompounds which are identical to or similar to natural microorganismantigens and induce an immune response specific for that microorganism.A compound is similar to a natural microorganism antigen if it inducesan immune response (humoral and/or cellular) to a natural microorganismantigen. Such antigens are used routinely in the art and are well knownto those of ordinary skill in the art.

In some aspects of the invention, the subject is “exposed to” theantigen. As used herein, the term “exposed to” refers to either theactive step of contacting the subject with an antigen or the passiveexposure of the subject to the antigen in vivo. Methods for the activeexposure of a subject to an antigen are well known in the art. Ingeneral, an antigen is administered directly to the subject by any meanssuch as intravenous, intramuscular, oral, transdermal, mucosal,intranasal, intratracheal, or subcutaneous administration. The antigencan be administered locally or systemically. Methods for administeringthe antigen and the immunostimulatory oligonucleotide are described inmore detail below. A subject is passively exposed to an antigen if anantigen becomes available for exposure to the immune cells in the body.A subject may be passively exposed to an antigen, for instance, by entryof a foreign pathogen into the body.

The methods in which a subject is passively exposed to an antigen can beparticularly dependent on timing of administration of theimmunostimulatory oligonucleotide. For instance, in a subject at risk ofdeveloping an infectious disease, the subject may be administered theimmunostimulatory oligonucleotide on a regular basis when the risk isgreatest. Additionally, the immunostimulatory oligonucleotide may beadministered to travelers before they travel to foreign lands where theyare at risk of exposure to infectious agents. The immunostimulatoryoligonucleotide may also be administered to soldiers or civilians atrisk of exposure to biowarfare to induce a systemic or mucosal immuneresponse to the antigen when and if the subject is exposed to it.

Examples of viruses that have been found in humans include but are notlimited to: Retroviridae (e.g. human immunodeficiency viruses, such asHIV-1 (also referred to as HTLV-III, LAV or HTLV-III/LAV, or HIV-III;and other isolates, such as HIV-LP); Picornaviridae (e.g., polioviruses, hepatitis A virus; enteroviruses, human Coxsackie viruses,rhinoviruses, echoviruses); Calciviridae (e.g., strains that causegastroenteritis); Togaviridae (e.g., equine encephalitis viruses,rubella viruses); Flaviridae (e.g., dengue viruses, encephalitisviruses, yellow fever viruses); Coronoviridae (e.g., coronaviruses);Rhabdoviradae (e.g., vesicular stomatitis viruses, rabies viruses);Filoviridae (e.g., ebola viruses); Paramyxoviridae (e.g., parainfluenzaviruses, mumps virus, measles virus, respiratory syncytial virus);Orthomyxoviridae (e.g., influenza viruses); Bungaviridae (e.g., Hantaanviruses, bunga viruses, phleboviruses and Nairo viruses); Arena viridae(hemorrhagic fever viruses); Reoviridae (e.g., reoviruses, orbiviursesand rotaviruses); Birnaviridae; Hepadnaviridae (Hepatitis B virus);Parvovirida (parvoviruses); Papovaviridae (papilloma viruses, polyomaviruses); Adenoviridae (most adenoviruses); Herpesviridae (herpessimplex virus (HSV) 1 and 2, varicella zoster virus, cytomegalovirus(CMV), herpes virus); Poxviridae (variola viruses, vaccinia viruses, poxviruses); and Iridoviridae (e.g., African swine fever virus); andunclassified viruses (e.g., the etiological agents of Spongiformencephalopathies, the agent of delta hepatitis (thought to be adefective satellite of hepatitis B virus), the agents of non-A, non-Bhepatitis (class 1=internally transmitted; class 2=parenterallytransmitted (i.e., Hepatitis C); Norwalk and related viruses, andastroviruses). In some embodiments, the viruses are RespiratorySyncytical Virus (RSV), Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV1), Herpes SimplexVirus 2 (HSV2), Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 (HIV1) or HIV2.

Although many of the microbial antigens described herein relate to humandisorders, the invention is also useful for treating other non-humanvertebrates. Non-human vertebrates are also capable of developinginfections which can be prevented or treated with the immunostimulatorynucleic acids disclosed herein. For instance, in addition to thetreatment of infectious human diseases, the methods of the invention areuseful for treating infections of animals.

Both gram negative and gram positive bacteria serve as antigens invertebrate animals. Such gram positive bacteria include, but are notlimited to, Pasteurella species, Staphylococci species, andStreptococcus species. Gram negative bacteria include, but are notlimited to, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas species, and Salmonellaspecies. Specific examples of infectious bacteria include but are notlimited to, Helicobacter pyloris, Borelia burgdorferi, Legionellapneumophilia, Mycobacteria sps. (e.g., M. tuberculosis, M. avium, M.intracellulare, M. kansaii, M. gordonae), Staphylococcus aureus,Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Neisseria meningitidis, Listeria monocytogenes,Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus), Streptococcus agalactiae(Group B Streptococcus), Streptococcus (viridans group), Streptococcusfaecalis, Streptococcus bovis, Streptococcus (anaerobic sps.),Streptococcus pneumoniae, pathogenic Campylobacter sp., Enterococcussp., Haemophilus influenzae, Bacillus antracis, Corynebacteriumdiphtheriae, Corynebacterium sp., Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae,Clostridium perfringens, Clostridium tetani, Enterobacter aerogenes,Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pasteurella multocida, Bacteroides sp.,Fusobacterium nucleatum, Streptobacillus moniliformis, Treponemapallidium, Treponema pertenue, Leptospira, Rickettsia, and Actinomycesisraelli. In some embodiments, a bacterium is one that causes dentalcaries, for example Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sobrinus,Streptococcus sanguis, Lactobacillus acidophilis, or Actinomycesviscosus. In other embodiments, a bacterium is one that causesperiodontal disease, for example Porphyromonas gingivalis orActinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans.

Polypeptides of bacterial pathogens include but are not limited to aniron-regulated outer membrane protein (IROMP), an outer membrane protein(OMP), and an A-protein of Aeromonis salmonicida which causesfurunculosis, p57 protein of Renibacterium salmoninarum which causesbacterial kidney disease (BKD), major surface associated antigen (msa),a surface expressed cytotoxin (mpr), a surface expressed hemolysin(ish), and a flagellar antigen of Yersiniosis; an extracellular protein(ECP), an IROMP, and a structural protein of Pasteurellosis; an OMP anda flagellar protein of Vibrosis anguillarum and V. ordalii; a flagellarprotein, an OMP protein, aroA, and purA of Edwardsiellosis ictaluri andE. tarda; and surface antigen of Ichthyophthirius; and a structural andregulatory protein of Cytophaga columnari; and a structural andregulatory protein of Rickettsia.

Examples of fungi include Cryptococcus neoformans, Histoplasmacapsulatum, Coccidioides immitis, Blastomyces dermatitidis, Chlamydiatrachomatis, Candida albicans. Other infectious organisms (i.e.,protists) include Plasmodium spp. such as Plasmodium falciparum,Plasmodium malariae, Plasmodium ovale, Plasmodium vivax and Toxoplasmagondii. Blood-borne and/or tissues parasites include Plasmodium spp.,Babesia microti, Babesia divergens, Leishmania tropica, Leishmania spp.,Leishmania braziliensis, Leishmania donovani, Trypanosoma gambiense andTrypanosoma rhodesiense (African sleeping sickness), Trypanosoma cruzi(Chagas' disease), and Toxoplasma gondii. In some embodiments, aparasite is one associated with malaria. Other medically relevantmicroorganisms have been described extensively in the literature, e.g.,see C. G. A Thomas, Medical Microbiology, Bailliere Tindall, GreatBritain 1983.

Many vaccines for the treatment of non-human vertebrates are disclosedin Bennett, K., Compendium of Veterinary Products, 3rd ed. NorthAmerican Compendiums, Inc., 1995. As discussed above, antigens includeinfectious microbes such as viruses, parasites, bacteria and fungi andfragments thereof, derived from natural sources or synthetically.Infectious viruses of both human and non-human vertebrates, includeretroviruses, RNA viruses and DNA viruses. This group of retrovirusesincludes both simple retroviruses and complex retroviruses. The simpleretroviruses include the subgroups of B-type retroviruses, C-typeretroviruses and D-type retroviruses. An example of a B-type retrovirusis mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV). The C-type retroviruses includesubgroups C-type group A (including Rous sarcoma virus (RSV), avianleukemia virus (ALV), and avian myeloblastosis virus (AMV)) and C-typegroup B (including feline leukemia virus (FeLV), gibbon ape leukemiavirus (GALV), spleen necrosis virus (SNV), reticuloendotheliosis virus(RV) and simian sarcoma virus (SSV)). The D-type retroviruses includeMason-Pfizer monkey virus (MPMV) and simian retrovirus type 1 (SRV-1).The complex retroviruses include the subgroups of lentiviruses, T-cellleukemia viruses and the foamy viruses. Lentiviruses include HIV-1, butalso include HIV-2, SIV, Visna virus, feline immunodeficiency virus(FIV), and equine infectious anemia virus (EIAV). The T-cell leukemiaviruses include HTLV-1, HTLV-II, simian T-cell leukemia virus (STLV),and bovine leukemia virus (BLV). The foamy viruses include human foamyvirus (HFV), simian foamy virus (SFV) and bovine foamy virus (BFV).

Examples of other RNA viruses that are antigens in vertebrate animalsinclude, but are not limited to, members of the family Reoviridae,including the genus Orthoreovirus (multiple serotypes of both mammalianand avian retroviruses), the genus Orbivirus (Bluetongue virus,Eugenangee virus, Kemerovo virus, African horse sickness virus, andColorado Tick Fever virus), the genus Rotavirus (human rotavirus,Nebraska calf diarrhea virus, simian rotavirus, bovine or ovinerotavirus, avian rotavirus); the family Picornaviridae, including thegenus Enterovirus (poliovirus, Coxsackie virus A and B, entericcytopathic human orphan (ECHO) viruses, hepatitis A virus, Simianenteroviruses, Murine encephalomyelitis (ME) viruses, Poliovirus muris,Bovine enteroviruses, Porcine enteroviruses, the genus Cardiovirus(Encephalomyocarditis virus (EMC), Mengovirus), the genus Rhinovirus(Human rhinoviruses including at least 113 subtypes; otherrhinoviruses), the genus Apthovirus (Foot and Mouth disease (FMDV)); thefamily Calciviridae, including Vesicular exanthema of swine virus, SanMiguel sea lion virus, Feline picornavirus and Norwalk virus; the familyTogaviridae, including the genus Alphavirus (Eastern equine encephalitisvirus, Semliki forest virus, Sindbis virus, Chikungunya virus,O'Nyong-Nyong virus, Ross river virus, Venezuelan equine encephalitisvirus, Western equine encephalitis virus), the genus Flavirius (Mosquitoborne yellow fever virus, Dengue virus, Japanese encephalitis virus, St.Louis encephalitis virus, Murray Valley encephalitis virus, West Nilevirus, Kunjin virus, Central European tick borne virus, Far Eastern tickborne virus, Kyasanur forest virus, Louping III virus, Powassan virus,Omsk hemorrhagic fever virus), the genus Rubivirus (Rubella virus), thegenus Pestivirus (Mucosal disease virus, Hog cholera virus, Borderdisease virus); the family Bunyaviridae, including the genus Bunyvirus(Bunyamwera and related viruses, California encephalitis group viruses),the genus Phlebovirus (Sandfly fever Sicilian virus, Rift Valley fevervirus), the genus Nairovirus (Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus,Nairobi sheep disease virus), and the genus Uukuvirus (Uukuniemi andrelated viruses); the family Orthomyxoviridae, including the genusInfluenza virus (Influenza virus type A, many human subtypes); Swineinfluenza virus, and Avian and Equine Influenza viruses; influenza typeB (many human subtypes), and influenza type C (possible separate genus);the family paramyxoviridae, including the genus Paramyxovirus(Parainfluenza virus type 1, Sendai virus, Hemadsorption virus,Parainfluenza viruses types 2 to 5, Newcastle Disease Virus, Mumpsvirus), the genus Morbillivirus (Measles virus, subacute sclerosingpanencephalitis virus, distemper virus, Rinderpest virus), the genusPneumovirus (respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), Bovine respiratorysyncytial virus and Pneumonia virus); the family Rhabdoviridae,including the genus Vesiculovirus (VSV), Chandipura virus, Flanders-HartPark virus), the genus Lyssavirus (Rabies virus), fish Rhabdoviruses,and two probable Rhabdoviruses (Marburg virus and Ebola virus); thefamily Arenaviridae, including Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCM),Tacaribe virus complex, and Lassa virus; the family Coronoaviridae,including Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV), Hepatitis virus, Humanenteric corona virus, and Feline infectious peritonitis (Felinecoronavirus).

Illustrative DNA viruses that are antigens in vertebrate animalsinclude, but are not limited to, the family Poxviridae, including thegenus Orthopoxvirus (Variola major, Variola minor, Monkey pox Vaccinia,Cowpox, Buffalopox, Rabbitpox, Ectromelia), the genus Leporipoxvirus(Myxoma, Fibroma), the genus Avipoxvirus (Fowlpox, other avianpoxvirus), the genus Capripoxvirus (sheeppox, goatpox), the genusSuipoxvirus (Swinepox), the genus Parapoxvirus (contagious postulardermatitis virus, pseudocowpox, bovine papular stomatitis virus); thefamily Iridoviridae (African swine fever virus, Frog viruses 2 and 3,Lymphocystis virus of fish); the family Herpesviridae, including thealpha-Herpesviruses (Herpes Simplex Types 1 and 2, Varicella-Zoster,Equine abortion virus, Equine herpes virus 2 and 3, pseudorabies virus,infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis virus, infectious bovinerhinotracheitis virus, feline rhinotracheitis virus, infectiouslaryngotracheitis virus) the Beta-herpesviruses (Human cytomegalovirusand cytomegaloviruses of swine and monkeys); the gamma-herpesviruses(Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), Marek's disease virus, Herpes saimiri,Herpesvirus ateles, Herpesvirus sylvilagus, guinea pig herpes virus,Lucke tumor virus); the family Adenoviridae, including the genusMastadenovirus (Human subgroups A, B, C, D, E and ungrouped; simianadenoviruses (at least 23 serotypes), infectious canine hepatitis, andadenoviruses of cattle, pigs, sheep, frogs and many other species, thegenus Aviadenovirus (Avian adenoviruses); and non-cultivatableadenoviruses; the family Papoviridae, including the genus Papillomavirus(Human papilloma viruses, bovine papilloma viruses, Shope rabbitpapilloma virus, and various pathogenic papilloma viruses of otherspecies), the genus Polyomavirus (polyomavirus, Simian vacuolating agent(SV-40), Rabbit vacuolating agent (RKV), K virus, BK virus, JC virus,and other primate polyoma viruses such as Lymphotrophic papillomavirus); the family Parvoviridae including the genus Adeno-associatedviruses, the genus Parvovirus (Feline panleukopenia virus, bovineparvovirus, canine parvovirus, Aleutian mink disease virus, etc).Further, DNA viruses may include viruses which do not fit into the abovefamilies such as Kuru and Creutzfeldt-Jacob disease viruses and chronicinfectious neuropathic agents (CHINA virus).

In an embodiment, the invention pertains to a method of inducing anantigen-specific immune response comprising administering an antigen andan immunostimulatory oligonucleotide of the invention wherein at least40%, preferably at least 45%, even preferably at least 50%, evenpreferably about 53% of the antigen-specific CD4+ T-cells induced secretIFN-γ, in the antigen-specific CD4+ T-cell population secreting IFN-γ,TNF-α and/or IL-2. In an embodiment, said proportion of antigen-specificCD4+ T-cells secreting IFN-γ is determined by polychromatic flowcytometry. An example of such determination is disclosed at example 1 ofthe present document (see paragraph ‘Antigen specific multi-cytokinesecreting T cell populations’). In an embodiment, the antigen andimmunostimulatory oligonucleotide are administered in an effectiveamount to induce an antigen-specific immune response in said subject. Inan embodiment, the antigen is any of the antigens disclosed herein.

In an embodiment, the invention pertains to a method of inducing anantigen-specific immune response comprising administering an antigen andan immunostimulatory oligonucleotide of the invention wherein at least10%, preferably at least 15%, even preferably at least 20%, evenpreferably about 22% of the antigen-specific CD4+ T-cells induced aredouble cytokine producers, preferentially secreting both IFN-γ andTNF-α, in the antigen-specific CD4+ T-cell population secreting IFN-γ,TNF-α and/or IL-2. In an embodiment, said proportion of antigen-specificCD4+ T-cells secreting both IFN-γ and TNF-α is determined bypolychromatic flow cytometry. An example of such determination isdisclosed at example 1 of the present document (see paragraph ‘Antigenspecific multi-cytokine secreting T cell populations’). In anembodiment, the antigen and immunostimulatory oligonucleotide areadministered in an effective amount to induce an antigen-specific immuneresponse in said subject. In an embodiment, the antigen is any of theantigens disclosed herein.

In an embodiment, the invention pertains to a method of inducing anantigen-specific immune response comprising administering an antigen andan immunostimulatory oligonucleotide of the invention wherein at least30%, preferably at least 40%, even preferably at least 45%, evenpreferably about 47% of the antigen-specific CD8+ T-cells induced aredouble cytokine producers, preferentially secreting both IFN-γ andTNF-α, in the antigen-specific CD8+ T-cell population secreting IFN-γ,TNF-α and/or IL-2. In an embodiment, said proportion of antigen-specificCD8+ T-cells secreting both IFN-γ and TNF-α is determined bypolychromatic flow cytometry. An example of such determination isdisclosed at example 1 of the present document (see paragraph ‘Antigenspecific multi-cytokine secreting T cell populations’). In anembodiment, the antigen and immunostimulatory oligonucleotide areadministered in an effective amount to induce an antigen-specific immuneresponse in said subject. In an embodiment, the antigen is any of theantigens disclosed herein.

In an embodiment, the invention pertains to the immunostimulatoryoligonucleotide of the invention for use in inducing an immune responseagainst an antigen, wherein at least 40%, preferably at least 45%, evenpreferably at least 50%, even preferably about 53% of theantigen-specific CD4+ T-cells induced secret IFN-γ, in theantigen-specific CD4+ T-cell population secreting IFN-γ, TNF-α and/orIL-2. In an embodiment, said proportion of antigen-specific CD4+ T-cellssecreting IFN-γ is determined by polychromatic flow cytometry. Anexample of such determination is disclosed at example 1 of the presentdocument (see paragraph ‘Antigen specific multi-cytokine secreting Tcell populations’). In an embodiment, the antigen is any of the antigensdisclosed herein.

In an embodiment, the invention pertains to the immunostimulatoryoligonucleotide of the invention for use in inducing an immune responseagainst an antigen, wherein at least 10%, preferably at least 15%, evenpreferably at least 20%, even preferably about 22% of theantigen-specific CD4+ T-cells induced are double cytokine producers,preferentially secreting both IFN-γ and TNF-α, in the antigen-specificCD4+ T-cell population secreting IFN-γ, TNF-α and/or IL-2. In anembodiment, said proportion of antigen-specific CD4+ T-cells secretingboth IFN-γ and TNF-α is determined by polychromatic flow cytometry. Anexample of such determination is disclosed at example 1 of the presentdocument (see paragraph ‘Antigen specific multi-cytokine secreting Tcell populations’). In an embodiment, the antigen is any of the antigensdisclosed herein.

In an embodiment, the invention pertains to the immunostimulatoryoligonucleotide of the invention for use in inducing an immune responseagainst an antigen, wherein at least 30%, preferably at least 40%, evenpreferably at least 45%, even preferably about 47% of theantigen-specific CD8+ T-cells induced are double cytokine producers,preferentially secreting both IFN-γ and TNF-α, in the antigen-specificCD8+ T-cell population secreting IFN-γ, TNF-α and/or IL-2. In anembodiment, said proportion of antigen-specific CD4+ T-cells secretingboth IFN-γ and TNF-α is determined by polychromatic flow cytometry. Anexample of such determination is disclosed at example 1 of the presentdocument (see paragraph ‘Antigen specific multi-cytokine secreting Tcell populations’). In an embodiment, the antigen is any of the antigensdisclosed herein.

In an embodiment, the invention pertains to the immunostimulatoryoligonucleotide of the invention for use as an adjuvant in a vaccinewherein said vaccine induces an immune response against an antigen andwherein at least 40%, preferably at least 45%, even preferably at least50%, even preferably about 53% of the antigen-specific CD4+ T-cellsinduced secret IFN-γ, in the antigen-specific CD4+ T-cell populationsecreting IFN-γ, TNF-α and/or IL-2. In an embodiment, said proportion ofantigen-specific CD4+ T-cells secreting IFN-γ is determined bypolychromatic flow cytometry. An example of such determination isdisclosed at example 1 of the present document (see paragraph ‘Antigenspecific multi-cytokine secreting T cell populations’). In anembodiment, the antigen is any of the antigens disclosed herein.

In an embodiment, the invention pertains to the immunostimulatoryoligonucleotide of the invention for use as an adjuvant in a vaccinewherein said vaccine induces an immune response against an antigen andwherein at least 10%, preferably at least 15%, even preferably at least20%, even preferably about 22% of the antigen-specific CD4+ T-cellsinduced are double cytokine producers, preferentially secreting bothIFN-γ and TNF-α, in the antigen-specific CD4+ T-cell populationsecreting IFN-γ, TNF-α and/or IL-2. In an embodiment, said proportion ofdouble-producing antigen-specific CD4+ T-cells secreting both IFN-γ andTNF-α is determined by polychromatic flow cytometry. An example of suchdetermination is disclosed at example 1 of the present document (seeparagraph ‘Antigen specific multi-cytokine secreting T cellpopulations’). In an embodiment, the antigen is any of the antigensdisclosed herein.

In an embodiment, the invention pertains to the immunostimulatoryoligonucleotide of the invention for use as an adjuvant in a vaccinewherein said vaccine induces an immune response against an antigen andwherein at least 30%, preferably at least 40%, even preferably at least45%, even preferably about 47% of the antigen-specific CD8+ T-cellsinduced are double cytokine producers, preferentially secreting bothIFN-γ and TNF-α, in the antigen-specific CD8+ T-cell populationsecreting IFN-γ, TNF-α and/or IL-2. In an embodiment, said proportion ofdouble-producing antigen-specific CD8+ T-cells secreting both IFN-γ andTNF-α is determined by polychromatic flow cytometry. An example of suchdetermination is disclosed at example 1 of the present document (seeparagraph ‘Antigen specific multi-cytokine secreting T cellpopulations’). In an embodiment, the antigen is any of the antigensdisclosed herein.

In an embodiment, the invention pertains to a vaccine comprising anantigen and an immunostimulatory oligonucleotide of the invention foruse in inducing an immune response to said antigen wherein at least 40%,preferably at least 45%, even preferably at least 50%, even preferablyabout 53% of the antigen-specific CD4+ T-cells induced secret IFN-γ, inthe antigen-specific CD4+ T-cell population secreting IFN-γ, TNF-αand/or IL-2. In an embodiment, said proportion of antigen-specific CD4+T-cells secreting IFN-γ is determined by polychromatic flow cytometry.An example of such determination is disclosed at example 1 of thepresent document (see paragraph ‘Antigen specific multi-cytokinesecreting T cell populations’). In an embodiment, the antigen is any ofthe antigens disclosed herein.

In an embodiment, the invention pertains to a vaccine comprising anantigen and an immunostimulatory oligonucleotide of the invention foruse in inducing an immune response to said antigen wherein at least 10%,preferably at least 15%, even preferably at least 20%, even preferablyabout 22% of the antigen-specific CD4+ T-cells induced are doublecytokine producers, preferentially secreting both IFN-γ and TNF-α, inthe antigen-specific CD4+ T-cell population secreting IFN-γ, TNF-αand/or IL-2. In an embodiment, said proportion of antigen-specific CD4+T-cells secreting both IFN-γ and TNF-α is determined by polychromaticflow cytometry. An example of such determination is disclosed at example1 of the present document (see paragraph ‘Antigen specificmulti-cytokine secreting T cell populations’). In an embodiment, theantigen is any of the antigens disclosed herein.

In an embodiment, the invention pertains to a vaccine comprising anantigen and an immunostimulatory oligonucleotide of the invention foruse in inducing an immune response to said antigen wherein at least 30%,preferably at least 40%, even preferably at least 45%, even preferablyabout 47% of the antigen-specific CD8+ T-cells induced are doublecytokine producers, preferentially secreting both IFN-γ and TNF-α, inthe antigen-specific CD8+ T-cell population secreting IFN-γ, TNF-αand/or IL-2. In an embodiment, said proportion of antigen-specific CD8+T-cells secreting both IFN-γ and TNF-α is determined by polychromaticflow cytometry. An example of such determination is disclosed at example1 of the present document (see paragraph ‘Antigen specificmulti-cytokine secreting T cell populations’). In an embodiment, theantigen is any of the antigens disclosed herein.

The language “effective amount” of a nucleic acid molecule refers to theamount necessary or sufficient to realize a desired biologic effect. Forexample, an effective amount of a nucleic acid containing at least oneunmethylated CpG for treating a disorder could be that amount necessaryto eliminate a microbial infection or a tumor. An effective amount foruse as a vaccine adjuvant could be that amount useful for boosting asubjects immune response to a vaccine. An “effective amount” fortreating an infectious disease, a disorder associated with a selfantigen or a disorder associated with an addictive substance can be thatamount useful for inducing an antigen-specific immune response. Theeffective amount for any particular application can vary depending onsuch factors as the disease or condition being treated, the particularCpG immunostimulatory oligonucleotide being administered, the size ofthe subject, or the severity of the disease or condition. One ofordinary skill in the art can empirically determine the effective amountof a particular oligonucleotide without necessitating undueexperimentation.

In aspects of the invention, a vaccine may further include an adjuvant.In some embodiments, an adjuvant is an agonist for a Toll-like receptor(TLR) that is not TLR9. An agonist for a TLR in some embodiments is anagonist for TLR3 (for example, stabilized polyl:C), TLR4 (for example, aderivative of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for example, MPL or GLA), TLR5(for example, flagellin), TLR7 (for example, a small molecule of theimidazoquinoline family) or TLR8 (for example, a small molecule of theimidazoquinoline family). In some embodiments, the adjuvant is aluminumsalt, for example, aluminum hydroxide, an immune stimulatory complex(ISCOM), an oil-in-water or water-in-oil emulsion, a liposome, or adelivery system, for example, a nanoparticle or microparticle.

The term effective amount of a CpG immunostimulatory oligonucleotiderefers to the amount necessary or sufficient to realize a desiredbiologic effect. For example, an effective amount of a CpGimmunostimulatory oligonucleotide administered with an antigen forinducing an antigen-specific immune response is that amount necessary toinduce an immune response in response to an antigen upon exposure to theantigen. Combined with the teachings provided herein, by choosing amongthe various active immunostimulatory oligonucleotides and weighingfactors such as potency, relative bioavailability, patient body weight,severity of adverse side-effects and preferred mode of administration,an effective prophylactic or therapeutic treatment regimen can beplanned which does not cause substantial toxicity and yet is effectiveto treat the particular subject. The effective amount for any particularapplication can vary depending on such factors as the disease orcondition being treated, the particular CpG immunostimulatoryoligonucleotide being administered, the size of the subject, or theseverity of the disease or condition. One of ordinary skill in the artcan empirically determine the effective amount of a particular CpGimmunostimulatory oligonucleotide and/or antigen and/or othertherapeutic agent without necessitating undue experimentation in lightof this disclosure.

Subject doses of the compounds described herein for local deliverytypically range from about 0.1 μg to 50 mg per administration which,depending on the application, could be given daily, weekly, or monthlyand any other amount of time therebetween. More typically local dosesrange from about 10 μg to 10 mg per administration, and optionally fromabout 100 μg to 1 mg, with 2-4 administrations being spaced days orweeks apart. More typically, immune stimulant doses range from 1 μg to10 mg per administration, and most typically 10 μg to 1 mg, with dailyor weekly administrations. Subject doses of the compounds describedherein for parenteral delivery for the purpose of inducing anantigen-specific immune response, wherein the compounds are deliveredwith an antigen but not another therapeutic agent are typically 5 to10,000 times higher than the effective local dose for vaccine adjuvantor immune stimulant applications, and more typically 10 to 1,000 timeshigher, and most typically 20 to 100 times higher. Doses of thecompounds described herein for parenteral delivery, e.g., for inducingan innate immune response, for increasing ADCC, for inducing an antigenspecific immune response when the CpG immunostimulatory oligonucleotidesare administered in combination with other therapeutic agents or inspecialized delivery vehicles typically range from about 0.1 μg to 10 mgper administration which, depending on the application, could be givendaily, weekly, or monthly and any other amount of time therebetween.More typically parenteral doses for these purposes range from about 10μg to 5 mg per administration, and most typically from about 100 μg to 1mg, with 2-4 administrations being spaced days or weeks apart. In someembodiments, however, parenteral doses for these purposes may be used ina range of 5 to 10,000 times higher than the typical doses describedabove.

For any compound described herein the therapeutically effective amountcan be initially determined from animal models. A therapeuticallyeffective dose can also be determined from human data for CpGoligonucleotides which have been tested in humans (e.g., human clinicaltrials have been initiated) and for compounds which are known to exhibitsimilar pharmacological activities, such as other adjuvants, e.g., LTand other antigens for vaccination purposes. Higher doses may berequired for parenteral administration. The applied dose can be adjustedbased on the relative bioavailability and potency of the administeredcompound. Adjusting the dose to achieve maximal efficacy based on themethods described above and other methods as are well-known in the artis well within the capabilities of the ordinarily skilled artisan.

The formulations of the invention are administered in pharmaceuticallyacceptable solutions, which may routinely contain pharmaceuticallyacceptable concentrations of salt, buffering agents, preservatives,compatible carriers, adjuvants, and optionally other therapeuticingredients.

For use in therapy, an effective amount of the CpG immunostimulatoryoligonucleotide can be administered to a subject by any mode thatdelivers the oligonucleotide to the desired surface. Administering thepharmaceutical composition of the present invention may be accomplishedby any means known to the skilled artisan. Preferred routes ofadministration include but are not limited to parenteral (for example,intramuscular, subcutaneous, intradermal, intravenous, intravesical orintraperitoneal), topical (for example, skin (transdermal), mucosal),oral, intranasal, intravaginal, intrarectal, trans-buccal, intraocularor sublingual.

The immunostimulatory oligonucleotides either alone or in conjunctionwith other therapeutic agents, may be administered via any routedescribed herein. In some preferred embodiments, the administration islocal. Local administration may include topical application to mucosalsurfaces, e.g., the skin, such as those of the mouth and genitals.

The immunostimulatory oligonucleotides, when it is desirable to deliverthem systemically, may be formulated for parenteral administration byinjection, e.g., by bolus injection or continuous infusion. Formulationsfor injection may be presented in unit dosage form, e.g., in ampoules orin multi-dose containers, with an added preservative. The compositionsmay take such forms as suspensions, solutions or emulsions in oily oraqueous vehicles, and may contain formulatory agents such as suspending,stabilizing and/or dispersing agents.

Pharmaceutical formulations for parenteral administration includeaqueous solutions of the immunostimulatory oligonucleotides inwater-soluble form. Additionally, suspensions of the immunostimulatoryoligonucleotides may be prepared as appropriate oily injectionsuspensions. Suitable lipophilic solvents or vehicles include fatty oilssuch as sesame oil, or synthetic fatty acid esters, such as ethyl oleateor triglycerides, or liposomes. Aqueous injection suspensions maycontain substances which increase the viscosity of the suspension, suchas sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, sorbitol, or dextran. Optionally, thesuspension may also contain suitable stabilizers or agents whichincrease the solubility of the immunostimulatory oligonucleotides toallow for the preparation of highly concentrated solutions.

The immunostimulatory oligonucleotides, when it is desirable to deliverthem systemically, may be formulated for parenteral administration byinjection, e.g., by bolus injection or continuous infusion. Formulationsfor injection may be presented in unit dosage form, e.g., in ampoules orin multi-dose containers, with an added preservative. The compositionsmay take such forms as suspensions, solutions or emulsions in oily oraqueous vehicles, and may contain formulatory agents such as suspending,stabilizing and/or dispersing agents.

One may dilute or increase the volume of the therapeutic with an inertmaterial. These diluents could include carbohydrates, especiallymannitol, a-lactose, anhydrous lactose, cellulose, sucrose, modifieddextrans and/or starch. Certain inorganic salts may be also be used asfillers including calcium triphosphate, magnesium carbonate and/orsodium chloride. Some commercially available diluents are Fast-Flo,Emdex, STA-Rx 1500, Emcompress and Avicell.

To aid dissolution of the therapeutic into the aqueous environment asurfactant might be added as a wetting agent. Surfactants may includeanionic detergents such as sodium lauryl sulfate, dioctyl sodiumsulfosuccinate and/or dioctyl sodium sulfonate. Cationic detergentsmight be used and could include benzalkonium chloride or benzethomiumchloride. The list of potential non-ionic detergents that could beincluded in the formulation as surfactants are lauromacrogol 400,polyoxyl 40 stearate, polyoxyethylene hydrogenated castor oil 10, 50and/or 60, glycerol monostearate, polysorbate 40, 60, 65 and/or 80,sucrose fatty acid ester, methyl cellulose and carboxymethyl cellulose.These surfactants could be present in the formulation of theimmunostimulatory oligonucleotides either alone or as a mixture indifferent ratios.

Pharmaceutical formulations for parenteral administration includeaqueous solutions of the immunostimulatory oligonucleotides inwater-soluble form. Additionally, suspensions of the immunostimulatoryoligonucleotides may be prepared as appropriate oily injectionsuspensions. Suitable lipophilic solvents or vehicles include fatty oilssuch as sesame oil, or synthetic fatty acid esters, such as ethyl oleateor triglycerides, or liposomes. Aqueous injection suspensions maycontain substances which increase the viscosity of the suspension, suchas sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, sorbitol, or dextran. Optionally, thesuspension may also contain suitable stabilizers or agents whichincrease the solubility of the immunostimulatory oligonucleotides toallow for the preparation of highly concentrated solutions.

Alternatively, the immunostimulatory oligonucleotides may be in powderform for constitution with a suitable vehicle, e.g., sterilepyrogen-free water, before use.

For oral administration, the compounds (i.e., CpG immunostimulatoryoligonucleotides, antigens and other therapeutic agents) can beformulated readily by combining the immunostimulatory oligonucleotideswith pharmaceutically acceptable carriers well known in the art. Suchcarriers enable the immunostimulatory oligonucleotides of the inventionto be formulated as tablets, pills, dragees, capsules, liquids, gels,syrups, slurries, suspensions and the like, for oral ingestion by asubject to be treated. Pharmaceutical preparations for oral use can beobtained as solid excipient, optionally grinding a resulting mixture,and processing the mixture of granules, after adding suitableauxiliaries, if desired, to obtain tablets or dragee cores. Suitableexcipients are, in particular, fillers such as sugars, includinglactose, sucrose, mannitol, or sorbitol; cellulose preparations such as,for example, maize starch, wheat starch, rice starch, potato starch,gelatin, gum tragacanth, methyl cellulose,hydroxypropylmethyl-cellulose, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, and/orpolyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). If desired, disintegrating agents may beadded, such as the cross-linked polyvinyl pyrrolidone, agar, or alginicacid or a salt thereof such as sodium alginate. Optionally the oralformulations may also be formulated in saline or buffers, i.e. EDTA forneutralizing internal acid conditions or may be administered without anycarriers.

Also contemplated are oral dosage forms of the above agents orformulations. The agents or formulations may be chemically modified sothat oral delivery of the derivative is efficacious. Generally, thechemical modification contemplated is the attachment of at least onemoiety to the agent or formulation itself, where said moiety permits (a)inhibition of proteolysis; and (b) uptake into the blood stream from thestomach or intestine. Also desired is the increase in overall stabilityof the agent or formulation and increase in circulation time in thebody. Examples of such moieties include: polyethylene glycol, copolymersof ethylene glycol and propylene glycol, carboxymethyl cellulose,dextran, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone and polyproline.Abuchowski and Davis, 1981, “Soluble Polymer-Enzyme Adducts” In: Enzymesas Drugs, Hocenberg and Roberts, eds., Wiley-Interscience, New York,N.Y., pp. 367-383; Newmark, et al., 1982, J. Appl. Biochem. 4:185-189.Other polymers that could be used are poly-1,3-dioxolane andpoly-1,3,6-tioxocane. Preferred for pharmaceutical usage, as indicatedabove, are polyethylene glycol moieties.

Intranasal delivery of a pharmaceutical composition of the presentinvention is also contemplated. Intranasal delivery allows the passageof a pharmaceutical composition of the present invention to the bloodstream directly after administering the therapeutic product to the nose,without the necessity for deposition of the product in the lung.Formulations for nasal delivery include those with dextran orcyclodextran.

For intranasal administration, a useful device is a small, hard bottleto which a metered dose sprayer is attached. In one embodiment, themetered dose is delivered by drawing the pharmaceutical composition ofthe present invention solution into a chamber of defined volume, whichchamber has an aperture dimensioned to aerosolize an aerosol formulationby forming a spray when a liquid in the chamber is compressed. Thechamber is compressed to administer the pharmaceutical composition ofthe present invention. In a specific embodiment, the chamber is a pistonarrangement. Such devices are commercially available.

Alternatively, a plastic squeeze bottle with an aperture or openingdimensioned to aerosolize an aerosol formulation by forming a spray whenthe bottle is squeezed. The opening is usually found in the top of thebottle, and the top is generally tapered to partially fit in the nasalpassages for efficient administration of the aerosol formulation.Preferably, the nasal inhaler will provide a metered amount of theaerosol formulation, for administration of a measured dose of the drug.

For trans-buccal administration, the compositions may take the form oftablets or lozenges formulated in conventional manner.

The compounds may also be formulated in rectal or vaginal compositionssuch as suppositories or retention enemas, e.g., containing conventionalsuppository bases such as cocoa butter or other glycerides.

In addition to the formulations described previously, the compounds mayalso be formulated as a depot preparation. Such long acting formulationsmay be formulated with suitable polymeric or hydrophobic materials (forexample, as an emulsion in an acceptable oil) or ion exchange resins, oras sparingly soluble derivatives, for example, as a sparingly solublesalt.

The pharmaceutical compositions also may comprise suitable solid or gelphase carriers or excipients. Examples of such carriers or excipientsinclude but are not limited to calcium carbonate, calcium phosphate,various sugars, starches, cellulose derivatives, gelatin, and polymerssuch as polyethylene glycols.

Suitable liquid or solid pharmaceutical preparation forms are, forexample, aqueous or saline solutions for inhalation, microencapsulated,encochleated, coated onto microscopic gold particles, contained inliposomes, nebulized, aerosols, pellets for implantation into the skin,or dried onto a sharp object to be scratched into the skin. Thepharmaceutical compositions also include granules, powders, tablets,coated tablets, (micro)capsules, suppositories, syrups, emulsions,suspensions, creams, drops or preparations with protracted release ofactive compounds, in whose preparation excipients and additives and/orauxiliaries such as disintegrants, binders, coating agents, swellingagents, lubricants, flavorings, sweeteners or solubilizers arecustomarily used as described above. The pharmaceutical compositions aresuitable for use in a variety of drug delivery systems. For a briefreview of methods for drug delivery, see Langer, Science 249:1527-1533,1990.

The CpG immunostimulatory oligonucleotides and optionally othertherapeutics and/or antigens may be administered per se (neat) or in theform of a pharmaceutically acceptable salt. When used in medicine, thesalts should be pharmaceutically acceptable, but non-pharmaceuticallyacceptable salts may conveniently be used to prepare pharmaceuticallyacceptable salts thereof. Such salts include, but are not limited to,those prepared from the following acids: hydrochloric, hydrobromic,sulphuric, nitric, phosphoric, maleic, acetic, salicylic, p-toluenesulphonic, tartaric, citric, methane sulphonic, formic, malonic,succinic, naphthalene-2-sulphonic, and benzene sulphonic. Also, suchsalts can be prepared as alkaline metal or alkaline earth salts, such assodium, potassium or calcium salts of the carboxylic acid group.

Suitable buffering agents include: acetic acid and a salt (1-2% w/v);citric acid and a salt (1-3% w/v); boric acid and a salt (0.5-2.5% w/v);and phosphoric acid and a salt (0.8-2% w/v). Suitable preservativesinclude benzalkonium chloride (0.003-0.03% w/v); chlorobutanol (0.3-0.9%w/v); parabens (0.01-0.25% w/v) and thimerosal (0.004-0.02% w/v).

The pharmaceutical compositions of the invention contain an effectiveamount of a CpG immunostimulatory oligonucleotide and optionallyantigens and/or other therapeutic agents optionally included in apharmaceutically-acceptable carrier. The termpharmaceutically-acceptable carrier means one or more compatible solidor liquid filler, diluents or encapsulating substances which aresuitable for administration to a human or other vertebrate animal. Theterm carrier denotes an organic or inorganic ingredient, natural orsynthetic, with which the active ingredient is combined to facilitatethe application. The components of the pharmaceutical compositions alsoare capable of being commingled with the compounds of the presentinvention, and with each other, in a manner such that there is nointeraction which would substantially impair the desired pharmaceuticalefficiency.

The present invention is further illustrated by the following Examples,which in no way should be construed as further limiting. The entirecontents of all of the references (including literature references,issued patents, published patent applications, and co-pending patentapplications) cited throughout this application are hereby expresslyincorporated by reference in their entireties.

EXAMPLES Example 1

Immunostimulatory oligonucleotide CPG 24555 was compared witholigonucleotides CPG 10103 and CPG 7909 for their ability to augmentantigen-specific immune responses in mice when immunized intramuscularly(IM) using hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) or ovalbumin (OVA) asmodel antigens.

Methods and Materials

All ODN were prepared from lyophilized oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN).Briefly, ODN were dissolved in endotoxin free Tris-EDTA buffer at pH 8.0(OmniPur®; EM Science, Gibbstown, N.J.) and diluted in sterileendotoxin-free Phosphate Buffered Saline (PBS) at pH 7.2 (Sigma ChemicalCompany, St. Louis, Mo.) under aseptic conditions to prevent bothmicrobial and endotoxin contamination. Stock solutions were stored at 4°C. until use.

Female wild type BALB/c and C57Bl/6 mice were purchased from CharlesRiver Canada (Quebec, Canada). TLR9 deficient mice in C57 backgroundwere bred at Taconic Farms and transferred to Coley Animal Care Facilityfor studies. Mice were housed in micro-isolator cages in the Animal CareFacility at Coley Pharmaceutical Group Canada. All studies wereconducted in accordance with the Animal Care Committee of Coley Canadaunder the guidance of Association for assessment and accreditation oflaboratory animal care (AAALAC International) and the Canadian Councilon Animal Care. Animals were approximately 18-20 g of weight at start ofstudy.

Immunization of Mice

Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg)

BALB/c mice (n=10/group) were immunized intramuscularly (IM) in the lefttibialis anterior muscle with 1 μg HBsAg; subtype ad (Cliniqa, 4076),alone or in combination with 10 μg CPG 24555, CPG 10103 or CPG 7909 in atotal volume of 50 μl. At 2 weeks post prime, animals were bled via thesub-mandibular vein using heparin as an anti-coagulant and boosted usingthe same vaccine formulation used for the primary immunization. At 2weeks post-boost, animals were bled by cardiac puncture using heparin asan anti-coagulant, euthanized by cervical dislocation and spleensremoved aseptically for use in immune assay for detection ofantigen-specific CTL activity, IFN-γ secretion (culture supernatants)and multi-cytokine (IFN-γ, TNF-α and IL-2) secreting CD4 vs CD8 T cells.Plasma from each bleed time point was used for detection of antigenspecific total IgG and IgG isotypes IgG1 and IgG2a.

Chicken Ovalbumin (OVA)

C57Bl/6 wild type and TLR9 deficient (C57Bl/6 TLR9−/−) mice (n=10/group)were immunized intramuscularly (IM) in the left tibialis anterior musclewith 20 μg OVA grade VII (Sigma, A7641) alone or in combination with 10μg CPG 24555, CPG 10103, CPG 7909 or non-CpG control ODN 2137 in a totalvolume of 50 μl. Animals were boosted using the same vaccine formulationas used for the primary immunization at 14 and 21 days post primaryimmunization. At 7 days post-last boost, animals were bled throughcardiac puncture using heparin as an anti-coagulant, euthanized bycervical dislocation and spleens removed aseptically for use in immuneassay for detection of antigen-specific CTL activity, IFN-γ secretion(culture supernatants), tetramer positive CD8 T cells and multi-cytokine(IFN-γ, TNF-α and IL-2) secreting CD4 vs. CD8 T cells. Plasma was usedfor detection of antigen specific total IgG and IgG isotypes IgG1 andIgG2c.

Immune Assays

Determination of Antigen Specific Antibody Titers

Antibodies (total IgG, IgG1 and IgG2a/c) specific to HBsAg (anti-HBs) orovalbumin (anti-OVA) were detected and quantified by endpoint dilutionELISA assay, which was performed in triplicate on samples fromindividual animals. End-point titers were defined as the highest plasmadilution that resulted in an absorbance value (OD 450 nm) two timesgreater than that of non-immune plasma with a cut-off value of 0.05.These were reported as group geometric mean titers (GMT)±SEM.

Evaluation of CTL Responses

Spleens removed at 1 week (for OVA) or 2 week (for HBsAg) post lastimmunization were used for assay of antigen specific cytotoxic Tlymphocyte (CTL) responses. Spleens were homogenized into single cellsuspension in RPMI 1640 (Hyclone, Logan, Utah) tissue culture mediumsupplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum (Hyclone, Logan, Utah),penicillin-streptomycin solution (final concentration of 1000 U/ml and 1mg/ml respectively; Invitrogen, Burlington, ON), L-glutamine (finalconcentration of 2 mM; Invitrogen, Burlington, ON) and 5×10⁻⁵ Mβ-mercaptoethanol (Invitrogen, Burlington, ON). HBsAg-specificlymphocytes in splenocyte suspensions (3×10⁶ cells/ml) werere-stimulated for 5 days by incubating with an irradiated murine cellline (P815/S) expressing HBsAg and OVA-specific lymphocytes insplenocyte suspensions (3×10⁶ cells/ml) were re-stimulated for 5 days byincubating with an irradiated murine cell line (EG.7) expressing OVA.Following re-stimulation, the potential of the lymphocytes to kill cellsexpressing HBsAg or OVA was determined by using ⁵¹Cr release assay. Theresults are presented as % specific lysis at different effector totarget (E:T) ratios.

Evaluation of Antigen Specific IFN-γ Secretion by Splenocytes

Splenocytes from 1 week (for OVA) or 2 week (for HBsAg) post lastimmunization were used measuring IFN-γ secretion following antigenre-stimulation. Briefly, spleen cell suspensions were prepared as donefor CTL assay and adjusted to a final concentration of 5×10⁶ cells perml in RPMI 1640 (Hyclone, Logan, Utah) tissue culture mediumsupplemented with 2% normal mouse serum (Cedarlane Laboratories,Ontario, Canada), penicillin-streptomycin solution (final concentrationof 1000 U/ml and 1 mg/ml respectively; Invitrogen, Burlington, ON),L-glutamine (final concentration of 2 mM; Invitrogen, Burlington, ON)and 5×10⁻⁵ M β-mercaptoethanol (Invitrogen, Burlington, ON) [CompleteRPMI 1640]. Splenocyte suspension was plated onto 96-well U-bottomtissue culture plates (100 μl/well) along with 100 μl of each stimulant(as described on appropriate figure legends) diluted to appropriateconcentrations in Complete RPMI 1640. Concanavalin A (10 μg/ml, Sigma)was used as a positive control and cells cultured with media alone wereused as negative controls. Each splenocyte sample was plated intriplicate and the cells were incubated in a humidified 5% CO₂ incubatorat 37° C. for 72 hr. Culture supernatants were harvested at the end ofthe incubation period and stored at −80° C. until assayed. Commerciallyavailable assay kits (mouse IFN-γ OptEIA; BD Pharmingen, Mississauga,ON) were used according to manufacturer's instructions to assay IFN-γlevels in culture supernatants.

Quantification of OVA Tetramer Positive CD8 Population

Splenocyte suspensions obtained as described above were also used forquantification of OVA tetramer positive CD8 populations by FACS.Splenocytes (2×10⁶) from individual spleens were transferred to 12×75 mmtest tubes containing 500 μl of staining buffer: DPBS containing 1%fetal bovine serum (Hyclone, Logan, Utah) and 0.1% Sodium Azide (Sigma).Cells were centrifuged at 1200 rpm for 5 minutes and supernatantremoved. Fc receptors were blocked by incubating cells at 4° C. for 10minutes with anti-mouse CD16/CD32 (Fc block) (BD Pharmingen). Cells werewashed with staining buffer and stained for 20 minutes at 4° C. usingclass-1 OVA-specific (SIINFEKL) tetramer (Beckman Coulter). Cells werethen washed again with staining buffer and stained for 20 minutes at 4°C. with anti-mouse CD8a-FITC (BD Pharmingen). Cells were washed withstaining buffer, resuspended in 500 μl of staining buffer and analyzedusing a FC500 flow cytometer (Beckman coulter). OVA-specific CD8 T cellswere identified as cells that were both positive for CD8a as well astetramer. Data is expressed as % CD8 and tetramer positive cells.

Quantification of Antigen Specific Multi-Cytokine Secreting T CellPopulations

Pooled splenocyte suspensions for each group were re-stimulated in24-well tissue culture plates in RPMI 1640 (Hyclone, Logan, Utah) tissueculture medium supplemented with 2% normal mouse serum (CedarlaneLaboratories, Ontario, Canada), penicillin-streptomycin solution (finalconcentration of 1000 U/ml and 1 mg/ml respectively; Invitrogen,Burlington, ON), L-glutamine (final concentration of 2 mM; Invitrogen,Burlington, ON) and 5×10⁻⁵ M β-mercaptoethanol (Invitrogen, Burlington,ON).

For CD4 re-stimulation: 5×10⁶ cells were stimulated overnight in a finalvolume of 1 ml containing 5 μg/ml of HBsAg.

For CD8 re-stimulation; 5×10⁶ cells were stimulated for 5 hours in afinal volume of 1 ml containing 5 μg/ml of HBs peptide (IPQSLDSWWTSL).

Media without stimulants was used as negative control where as 10 ng/mlof PMA (Sigma) and 1 μg/ml ionomycin (Sigma) [added during the last 4hours of incubation] were used as positive controls. Additionally,during the last 4 hours of re-stimulation, Brefelden A (BD Pharmingen)and monensin (BD Pharmingen) were added to halt protein transport.

Following re-stimulation, cells were washed with staining buffer and Fcreceptors were blocked by incubating cells at 4° C. for 10 minutes withanti-mouse CD16/CD32 (Fc block) (BD Pharmingen). Cells were thencentrifuged and re-suspended in staining buffer containing 5 μg/ml ofeither anti-mouse CD4-ECD (Invitrogen) or anti-mouse CD8-ECD(Invitrogen) and incubated for 30 minutes at 4° C. Cells were washedwith staining buffer and re-suspended in BD Fix/Perm Solution (BDPharmingen) for 20 minutes at 4° C. Cells were washed again with BD PermWash solution (BD Pharmingen) and re-suspended in 1×BD Perm Washsolution (BD Pharmingen) containing 5 μg/ml of each of IL-2-FITC (BDPharmingen), TNF-APC (BD Pharmingen) and IFN-γ-PeCy7 (BD Pharmingen) andincubated for 20 minutes at room temperature protected from light. Cellswere washed with 1×BD Perm Wash solution (BD Pharmingen) andre-suspended in normal staining buffer and analyzed using a FC500 flowcytometer (Beckman Coulter).

Results

Humoral Immune Responses

All three CpG ODN tested (CPG 24555, 10103 and 7909) significantlyenhanced HBsAg and OVA-specific total IgG titers in wild type mice(P<0.05). There was no significant difference amongst the three CpG ODNin terms of their ability to augment HBsAg or OVA specific total IgG inmice (FIG. 1A-B).

The ability of CPG 24555, CPG 10103 and CPG 7909 to augment antibodytiters in TLR9 deficient animals was tested using OVA. The overallantibody titers detected at 1 week post boost with any of thevaccination regimes was less than 100 and none of the CpG ODNs was ableto significantly augment antibody titers against OVA compared to whenvaccine was used alone or in combination with non-CpG ODN 2137 (data notshown).

In mice IgG isotype distribution is widely used as an indication of thenature of the immune response where high IgG2a or IgG2c levels areindicative of a Th1 biased immune response whereas high IgG1 titres areindicative of a Th2 biased immune response. All three CpG ODNs helpedinduce strong Th1 biased immune responses with IgG2a/IgG1 and IgG2c/IgG1ratios>1 (FIG. 1) and with significantly enhanced IgG2a/c titerscompared to when antigen was used alone (P<0.05) (FIG. 2A-B).

Cellular Immune Responses: CTL Responses

A functional way to measure Th1-based responses is to measure CTLactivity against antigen presenting target cells. As seen in FIG. 3, allCpG ODN tested were capable of significantly enhancing antigen-specificCTL responses against OVA in mice compared to when antigen was usedalone or in combination with non-CPG ODN 2137 (P<0.05; FIG. 3B). Therewas no significant difference between the CpG ODN tested in promotingthe induction of OVA-specific CTL except at 6.25:1 E:T ratio where bothCPG 24555 and CPG 7909 groups showed significantly higher OVA-specificCTL than groups receiving CPG 10103.

With HBsAg, both CPG 24555 and 10103 but not CPG 7909 were able toinduce significantly higher antigen-specific CTL responses compared towhen antigen was used alone. (P<0.05; FIG. 3A). There was no significantdifference between the CPG 24555 and CPG 10103 in their ability topromote the induction of HBsAg-specific CTL responses in mice.

CpG ODN mediated augmentation of CTL responses were not observed in TLR9deficient mice (FIG. 4).

Antigen Specific CD8 T Cells

MHC Class I H-2Kb -SIINFEKL specific tetramers were used to quantify CD8T cell responses in mice immunized with OVA. All CpG ODN tested enhancedantigen-specific CD8 T cells compared to when OVA was used alone or incombination with the non-CpG control ODN 2137 (FIG. 5). CPG 7909 wassuperior to CPG 24555 and 10103 in promoting the induction ofOVA-specific CD8 T cells (P<0.05). There was no significant differencebetween CPG 24555 and 10103 in their ability to induce OVA-specific CD8T cells (P>0.05).

CPG mediated augmentation of OVA specific CD8 T cells was not observedin TLR9 deficient mice (FIG. 5).

Antigen Specific IFN-γ Secretion

Interferon gamma (IFN-γ) production in response to antigen stimulationas a measure of cellular immunity was also investigated by detection ofthe cytokine in culture supernatant of splenocytes re-stimulated withvaccinated antigen using enzyme immunoassay. Culture supernatants ofsplenocytes harvested from animals immunized with either HBsAg or OVAusing CPG 24555 or CPG 10103 showed significantly higher levels of IFN-γcompared to ones immunized with antigen alone. When used with HBsAg, CPG24555 was significantly better in promoting antigen specific IFN-γsecretion compared to CPG 10103 or CPG 7909 (FIG. 6A). When used withOVA CPG 24555 was equal to CPG 10103 but superior to CPG 7909 inpromoting antigen specific IFN-γ secretion (FIG. 6B).

CpG ODN mediated augmentation of antigen-specific IFN-γ secretion wasnot observed in TLR9 deficient animals (FIG. 7).

Antigen Specific Multi-Cytokine Secreting T Cell Populations

According to more recent findings, IFN-γ production by T cells alone isnot predictive of the ability of antigen-specific T cells to induceprotective immune response. Therefore, in this study we evaluated theability of antigen-specific CD4 and CD8 T cells to produce IL-2, TNF-αand IFN-γ using polychromatic flow cytometry.

With both CD4 and CD8 T cells, a relatively low level of IL-2 secretionwas seen in comparison to IFN-γ and TNF-α secretion (FIG. 8). With CD4 Tcells, CPG 24555 helped induce higher percentage of double cytokinesecreting T cells compared to CPG 10103 and 7909 (23% with CPG 24555where as 4 and 6% with CPG 10103 and 7909 respectively). Overall, verylow percentage of triple cytokine producing HBsAg specific CD4 T cellswere observed (2, 0 and 1% with CPG 24555, 10103 and 7909 respectively).

With CD8 T cells, both CPG 24555 and CPG 7909 helped induce high levelof double cytokine secreting T cells compared to CPG 10103 (48 and 56%with CPG 24555 and CPG 7909 respectively, whereas only 19% with CPG10103). Similar to CD4 cells, very low percentage of triple cytokineproducing HBsAg-specific CD8+ T cells were observed (1, 0 and 0% withCPG 24555, 10103 and 7909 respectively).

TABLE 1 Percentage of HBsAg-specific CD4+ T cells that are single,double or triple cytokine producers secreting IFN-γ and/or IL-2 and/orTNF-α Ag + CpG Ag + CpG CD4+ T cells Ag alone 24555 10103 IFN-γ* 69% 53%36%  TNF-α* 41% 65% 62%  IL-2* 15%  9% 6% IFN-γ/IL-2 ^(#)  7%  2% 0%IFN-γ/TNF-α ^(#) 10% 22% 2% TNF-α/IL-2 ^(#)  8%  5% 2% IFN-γ/IL-2/TNF-α 0%  2% 0% % of single cytokine 75% 75% 96%  producer % producing atleast 25% 25% 4% two cytokines *indicates total proportion of cellsproducing these cytokines whether they are single, double or tripleproducers ^(#) indicates total proportion of cells producing these twocytokines whether they are double or triple producers

TABLE 2 Percentage of HBsAg-specific CD8+ T cells that are single,double or triple cytokine producers secreting IFN-γ and/or IL-2 and/orTNF-α Ag + CpG Ag + CpG CD8+ T cells Ag alone 24555 10103 IFN-γ* 63% 67%76% TFN-α* 42% 76% 37% IL-2* 10%  7%  6% IFN-γ/IL-2 ^(#)  5%  2%  0%IFN-γ/TNF-α ^(#) 10% 47% 18% TNF-α/IL-2 ^(#)  2%  2%  1%IFN-γ/IL-2/TNF-α  2%  1%  0% % of single cytokine 87% 51% 81% producer %producing at least 13% 49% 19% two cytokines *indicates total proportionof cells producing these cytokines whether they are single, double ortriple producers ^(#) indicates total proportion of cells producingthese two cytokines whether they are double or triple producersDiscussion

Studies were designed to compare CPG 24555 with CPG 10103 and CPG 7909for its ability to augment antigen-specific immune responses in micewhen used with 2 model antigens: HBsAg and OVA. CPG 24555 and CPG 10103have identical nucleotide sequence except CPG 24555 has a reversal ofthe 3′ most CG dinucleotide resulting in the elimination of a CpG motifin CPG 24555. CPG 7909 is a B-class CpG ODN that has proven adjuvantactivity in human clinical trials with a number of vaccine antigens.

Elimination of the 3′ CpG motif in CPG 24555 did not have any negativeimpact on its ability to augment antigen-specific immune responses andshowed equal (antibody responses and antigen-specific CD8 T cells asmeasured by tetramer staining) or better (antigen specific IFN-γsecretion) augmentation of adaptive immune responses compared to CPG10103. Similarly CPG 24555 was equal to CPG 7909 in augmenting antigenspecific antibody responses as well as CTL responses. CPG 24555 wassuperior to CPG 7909 in promoting antigen specific IFN-g secretion.

Augmentation of adaptive immune responses with all three CpG ODN testedwere TLR9 dependent as no augmentation in adaptive immune responses wereseen in TLR9 deficient mice.

As shown in table 1, a higher proportion of antigen-specific CD4+ Tcells producing IFN-γ were obtained with CPG 24555. Also a higherproportion of poly-functional antigen-specific CD4+ T cells producing atleast two cytokines among IFN-γ TNF-α and IL-2 (i.e., both IFN-γ andTNF-α, both IFN-γ and IL-2 or both TNF-α and IL-2, or eventriple-producers secreting IFN-γ TNF-α and IL-2) was obtained.

As regard CD8+ T cells (table 2) a higher proportion of poly-functionalantigen-specific CD8+ T cells producing two cytokines, and in particularIFN-γ and TNF-α, both IFN-γ and IL-2 was obtained.

Altogether, these results show that CPG 24555 is better than CPG 10103for generating poly-functional antigen-specific T cells populations whenused as an adjuvant. This can be of importance as poly-functional Tcells, in particular in terms of chemokine production (such as IFN-γ,TNF-α and IL-2) are thought to be better effector cells compared to Tcells that secrete a single cytokine.

Example 2 Comparison of CPG 24555 and CPG 10103

Nucleotide Sequences of ODNs Tested

CPG ODN 10103 (SEQ ID NO: 2) 5′T*C*G*T*C*G*T*T*T*T*T*C*G*G*T*C*G*T*T*T*T 3′ CPG ODN 24555(SEQ ID NO: 1) 5′ T*C*G*T*C*G*T*T*T*T*T*C*G*G*T*G*C*T*T*T*T 3′Non-CpG ODN 22881 (SEQ ID NO: 4) 5′T*G*C*T*G*C*T*T*T*T*T*G*G*C*T*G*C*T*T*T*T 3′ Non-CpG ODN 2137(SEQ ID NO: 5) 5′ T*G*C*T*G*C*T*T*T*T*G*T*G*C*T*T*T*T*G*T*G*C*T*T 3′*indicates phosphorothioate linkage (PS) The underline portion of thesequences represents the difference between CPG ODN 10103 and CPG ODN24555. Optimal CpG motif for humans: GTCGTTInnate Immunity in Human PBMC

Human PBMC (5×10⁶/ml) were incubated with varying concentrations of CPG10103, CPG 24555 or non-CpG control ODN 22881 for 24 or 48 h. Cellsupernatants were collected and assayed for cytokine/chemokine secretionusing a commercial ELISA kit (FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B).

Innate Immunity In Vivo in BALB/c Mice

BALB/c mice (n=5/group) were injected subcutaneously with PBS (placebocontrol), CPG 24555, CPG 10103 or non-CpG control ODN 2137 at 100 μgdose level. Animals were bled at 3 hour post injection and plasmaassayed for IP-10 (FIG. 10A) and IL-12 (FIG. 10B) or IL-6 (FIG. 10C)using commercial ELISA. Results shown are the group means±standard errorof the mean (NS=not significant).

Humoral Immunity In Vivo in BALB/c Mice

BALB/c mice were injected intramuscularly with HBsAg (1 μg) with orwithout CPG 2455, CPG 10103 or non-CpG control ODN 2137 at 10 μg. Themice were injected on 0 and 14 days. Results shown are HBsAg specifictotal IgG titers at 2 weeks post boost measured by endpoint ELISA (FIG.11A).

C57bl/6 mice were injected intramuscularly with OVA (20 μg) with orwithout CPG ODN 2455, CPG 10103 or non-CpG control ODN 2137 at 10 μg.The mice were injected on 0, 7 and 21 days. Results shown are OVAspecific total IgG titers at 1 week post last boost (FIG. 11B).

BALB/c mice were injected intramuscularly with Influenza A HA from Texas1/77, H3N2 (1 μg)±alum (25 μg Al3+) with or without CPG ODN 2455, CPG10103 or non-CpG control ODN 2137 at 10 μg. Results shown are kineticsof HA specific total IgG at various times post immunization measured byend point ELISA (FIG. 11C).

T Cell Responses in BALB/c Mice

BALB/c mice were injected intramuscularly with HBsAg (1 μg) with orwithout CPG ODN 2455, CPG 10103 or non-CpG control ODN 2137 at 10 μg.The mice were injected on 0 and 14 days. Results shown are HBsAgspecific CTL measured by ⁵¹Cr release at 2 weeks post boost (FIG. 12A).

C57bl/6 mice were injected intramuscularly with OVA (20 μg) with orwithout CPG ODN 2455, CPG 10103 or non-CpG control ODN 2137 at 10 μg.The mice were injected on 0, 7 and 21 days. Results shown are OVAspecific CTL measured by ⁵¹Cr release at 1 week post last boost (FIG.12B).

BALB/c mice were injected intramuscularly with HBsAg (1 μg) with orwithout CPG ODN 2455, CPG 10103 or non-CpG control ODN 2137 at 10 μg.The mice were injected on 0 and 14 days. Splenocytes from 2 week postlast boost were incubated with respective antigen for 72 hours andculture supernatants tested for IFN-γ by ELISA (FIG. 13A).

C57bl/6 mice were injected intramuscularly with OVA (20 μg) with orwithout CPG ODN 2455, CPG 10103 or non-CpG control ODN 2137 at 10 μg.The mice were injected on 0, 7 and 21 days. Splenocytes from 1 week postlast boost were incubated with respective antigen for 72 hours andculture supernatants tested for IFN-γ by ELISA (FIG. 13B).

Results and Discussion

CPG 10103 and CPG 24555 have identical nucleotide sequences except forthe reversal of the 3′ most CG dinucleotide present in CPG 10103 into GCin CPG 24555 resulting in elimination of a CpG motif in CPG 24555. Basedon previous reports, given the same flanking sequence, motif locationand spacing, an increased number of CPG motifs should lead to enhancedimmune stimulation. Based on the prior knowledge, it was expected thatCPG 24555 would be less immunostimulatory than CPG 10103 and lesseffective as a vaccine adjuvant. However, the results above demonstratethat CPG 24555 has similar or greater immunostimulatory potential andadjuvant activity compared to CPG 10103.

Example 3 Comparison of CPG 10103, CPG 24555 and CPG 7909 as a VaccineAdjuvant to Influenza Hemagglutinin Antigen (HA) in BALB/C Mice

Methods and Materials

Female BALB/c mice (10/gp), were immunized by intramuscular (IM)injection into the left tibialis anterior (TA) muscle with Influenza Ahemagglutinin (HA) from Texas 1/77, H3N2(1 μg)±CpG or control ODN (10mg)±alum (25 mg Al3+) in a total volume of 50 μl. Mice were bled atdifferent time intervals post immunization to assess HA-specificantibody response. Half the animals per group were euthanized at 6 wkspost immunization to assess cell mediated immune responses (CTL,HA-specific IFN-g secretion and flow cytometric analysis of T-cellcytokine secretion).

TABLE 3 Source, Stock Final Reagent Lot No Conc Conc Influenza AMicrobix 1.0 mg/ml 0.02 mg/ml Antigen (Texas 1/ Biosystems 77 H3N2) Inc.13037A8 Alum (Al3+) Cedarlane 85339 10.4 mg/ml 0.5 mg/ml Alhydrogel “85”2% CPG 7909 Coley, Lot ACZ- 37.15 mg/ml 0.2 mg/ml 03I-016-M CPG 24555(also Avecia, 17.75 0.2 mg/ml known as CPG Lot#ASD-A0218- 10103_GC4) 157[labeled as CPG 10103 ] CPG 10103 Dow Chemical, 24.51 mg/ml 0.2 mg/mlLot# MM021230 Control ODN 2137 Coley, Lot# 008 22.18 mg/ml 0.2 mg/ml PBSSigma (P4244) N/A N/A Lot # 096K6064Results and DiscussionAnti-HA at 6 Weeks Post Immunization

At 6 weeks post immunization, the amount of anti-HA was measured. CPG24555 was superior to CPG 10103 and CPG 7909 in augmenting HA-specificIgG (FIG. 14).

Hemagglutination Inhibition (HIA) Titers at 4 Weeks Post Immunization

The functionality of the antibodies were evaluated using ahemagglutination inhibition assay (HIA). When used alone as adjuvant,CPG 24555 was superior to CPG 10103 (p=0.009) and equal to CPG 7909(p=0.1) for augmenting HIA titers (FIG. 15). All 3 CpG ODN tested wereequal for augmenting HIA titers when used in combination with alum.

HA-Specific IFNγ Secretion

The concentration of IFNγ secreted was measured. CPG 24555 when usedalone as an adjuvant was superior to CPG 10103 for augmentingHA-specific IFN-γ secretion (marker of cell-mediated immunity) (FIG.16). When used in combination with alum, CPG 24555 was superior to CPG10103 and CPG 7909 for augmenting HA-specific IFN-γ secretion (FIG. 16).

Example 4 Comparison of CPG 24555 and CPG 7909 as a Vaccine Adjuvant toHepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) in Cynomolgus Monkeys

Materials and Methods

Cynomolgus monkeys (3-5 yrs; 2.5 to 5.5 kg; n=5/gp; except for n=4 inHBsAg+IMX group) were immunized intramuscularly (0.6 ml IM injection inthe right quadriceps) with:

1) Engerix-B (pediatric dose; 10 mg HBsAg)

2) Engerix-B+CPG 7909 (0.5 mg)

3) Engerix-B+CPG 24555 (0.5 mg)

Animals received 3 immunizations; at week 0 (prime), 4 (boost 1) and 8(boost 2). The animals were bled pre-prime, 4 weeks post-prime (week 4),2 weeks post-boost 1 (week 6), 4 weeks post-boost 1 (week 8) and 2 weekspost-boost 2 (week 10).

HBsAg specific immune assays were performed as follows:

1) Antibody titer and avidity

2) Intracellular cytokine secretion (IL-2, IFN-γ, TNF-α)

3) Poly-functional T cells

4) ELISPOT assay: IL2, TNF-α, IFN-γ, Perforin

Results and Discussion

Humoral Responses

A possibility of previous exposure of animals in this study to hepatitisB virus was evident by high level of HBsAg specific antibody titersdetected at pre vaccination. Furthermore, one animal in the shipmenttested positive for HBV by serology suggesting possible exposure to HBV.However, all animals used in this study tested negative for HBV by PCR.There was an increase in anti-HBsAg titer with each boost. The additionof CpG to Engerix-B enhanced HBsAg specific antibody titers compared towhen Engerix-B was used alone (FIG. 17). Furthermore, addition of CpGenhanced antibody avidity compared to when Engerix-B was used alone(FIG. 18). CPG 24555 was equal to CPG 7909 in enhancing both antibodytiter and avidity.

T Cell Responses: Intracellular Cytokine Secretion by CD4 T Cells

The addition of CpG to Engerix-B tended to increase the frequency of CD4T cell mediated IFN-γ and TNF-α but not IL-2 secretion (FIGS. 19A, B andC). Overall, CPG 24555 was equal to or better than CPG 7909 for theinduction of CD4 mediated cytokines.

T Cell Responses: Poly Functional CD4 T Cells; Quantitative Analysis

The number of cells secreting one, two or three cytokines was measuredat week 10 (2 weeks post-boost 2). CPG 24555 was equal to CPG 7909 ininducing Engerix-B specific CD4 T cell secreting one cytokine. Overall,relatively low level of triple cytokine producing CD4 T cells weredetected. However, CPG 24555 induced higher triple cytokine producingCD4 T cells than CPG 7909 or Engerix-B alone (FIG. 20A). Furthermore,animals immunized with Engerix-B+CPG 24555 had a higher proportion oftriple cytokine producing T cells compared to animals immunized withEngerix-B alone or Engerix-B+CPG 7909 (FIG. 20B).

T Cell Responses: Poly Functional CD4 T Cells; Qualitative Analysis

The number of cells secreting IL-2, IFN-γ and TNFα, or combinations ofthese cytokines, was measured. CPG 24555 was equal to or better than CPG7909 for inducing poly-functional T cells (FIG. 21A and FIG. 21B).

T Cell Responses: Poly Functionality of CD4 T Cells

The proportion of triple cytokine producing CD4 T cells was measured at2 weeks post boost 2. A higher proportion of triple cytokine producingCD4 T cells was observed with CPG 24555 than with CPG 7909.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the data, elimination of the 3′ CpG motif in CPG 24555 did nothave any negative impact on its ability to augment antigen-specificimmune responses and showed equal or better augmentation of adaptiveimmune responses compared to CPG 10103 and CPG 7909. Adjuvant activityof CPG 24555 seen with multiple antigens in mice was also translatedinto non human primates with CPG 24555 showing equal (humoral immunity)or superior (Ag-specific poly functional T cells) adjuvant activity toCPG 7909 with hepatitis B surface antigen in cynomolgus monkeys.

Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain usingno more than routine experimentation, many equivalents of the specificembodiments of the invention described herein. Such equivalents areintended to be encompassed by the following claims.

We claim:
 1. A composition comprising an antigen and animmunostimulatory oligonucleotide comprising the nucleotide sequence ofSEQ ID NO: 1, and further comprising a pharmaceutically acceptablecarrier.
 2. The composition of claim 1, wherein the immunostimulatoryoligonucleotide is in an effective amount to induce an antigen-specificimmune response.
 3. The composition of claim 2, wherein theantigen-specific immune response induced is a Th1 immune response. 4.The composition of claim 1, wherein the antigen is a microbial antigen,a self antigen or an addictive substance.
 5. The composition of claim 4,wherein the microbial antigen is a bacterial antigen, a viral antigen ora parasitic antigen.
 6. The composition of claim 5, wherein thebacterial antigen is associated with Staphylococcus aureus.
 7. Thecomposition of claim 5, wherein the viral antigen is associated withRespiratory Syncytial virus (RSV), Herpes Simplex virus 1, HerpesSimplex virus 2, Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 (HIV-1) or HIV-2.
 8. Thecomposition of claim 4, wherein the self antigen is a tumor antigen, anantigen associated with Alzheimer's Disease, an antigen against a humanantibody, or an antigen that is expressed from human endogenousretroviral elements.
 9. The composition of claim 8, wherein the tumorantigen is HER2, MAGE, NY-ESO, PSA, CEA or a variant form of EGFR. 10.The composition of claim 8, wherein the antigen is IgE.
 11. Thecomposition of claim 4, wherein the antigen is a nicotine haptenconjugated to a carrier.
 12. The composition of claim 11, wherein thecarrier to which the nicotine hapten is conjugated is diphtheria toxin(DT).
 13. The composition of claim 1, wherein the antigen is a peptide,a recombinant protein, a purified protein, whole killed pathogen, liveattenuated virus or viral vector, live attenuated bacteria or abacterial vector, a polysaccharide, a hapten, or encoded by plasmid DNA.14. The composition of claim 1, wherein the antigen is conjugated to acarrier.
 15. The composition of claim 14, wherein the carrier isdiphtheria toxin (DT) or a virus-like particle.
 16. The composition ofclaim 15, wherein the virus-like particle is RNA phage Q-β, hepatitis Bsurface antigen (HBsAg), or hepatitis B core antigen (HbcAg).
 17. Thecomposition of claim 1, further comprising one or more adjuvants. 18.The composition of claim 17, wherein the adjuvant is an aluminum salt.19. The composition of claim 18, wherein the aluminum salt is aluminumhydroxide.
 20. The composition of claim 17, wherein the adjuvant is aliposome.
 21. The composition of claim 1, wherein the immunostimulatoryoligonucleotide comprises one or more phosphorothioate linkages.
 22. Thecomposition of claim 1, wherein the immunostimulatory oligonucleotidecomprises at least one lipophilic substituted nucleotide analog and apyrimidine-purine dinucleotide.
 23. The composition of claim 1, whereinthe composition is formulated for administration via a parenteral route,wherein the parenteral route is intramuscular, subcutaneous,intradermal, intravenous or intraperitoneal.
 24. The composition ofclaim 1, wherein the composition is formulated for administration via atopical route, wherein the topical route is the skin, transdermal or amucosal surface.